2 weeks Ago By Daniel Hepburn
Heartfelt tributes have poured in for South African footballer Sinamandla Zondi, who passed away on Tuesday after collapsing in the warm-up, his club Durban City have confirmed. The cause of death is still to be determined , per reports. Zondi, just 22 years of age, was rushed to hospital ahead of his side’s match against Milford FC.
Said encounter was abandoned at the half-time interval after news had spread of the young footballer’s tragic passing. With Durban City 1-0 down at the time, the club made an announcement on their social media – shortly after the half-time whistle in their all-crucial clash with Milford, to inform fans that abandoning the game was their decision. After he collapsed, it has been reported that the defender was rushed to the Chatsmed Garden Hospital in an ambulance.
He, however, passed away prior to arriving at the healthcare facility. In a statement, his club wrote: “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of Sinamandla Zondi, aka Sgora, a loved member of the Durban City family. Sinamandla was more than a talented footballer.
He was a teammate, a friend, a brother, a son and an inspiration to all who knew him.” “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, teammates, coaches and everyone affected by this tragic loss. We will continue to support those close to him during this difficult time.
” Elsewhere, fellow South African outfit Stellenbosch FC wrote: "Stellenbosch FC is saddened to learn of the untimely passing of Durban City player Sinamandla Zondi. We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.
" Zondi made his professional debut in September 2021 and has been a pivotal part of his side’s promotion push as they sit at the top of the table. They are on course to be promoted to the Betway Premiership, South Africa’s top flight. Dubran City are set to commence as usual with a game on Friday against Pretoria Callies at the Chatsworth Stadium.
Chariman Farouk Kadodia has detailed why Zondi’s teammates, with a title on the line, are keen to play in his memory . According to reports, he said: “The league offered us the postponement of the game on Friday night, but the team and the players believe otherwise. They believe that if we were not chasing the Championship, they would have gladly taken the offer from the league.
“And for them, winning this Championship would be a remembrance for Sinamandla Zondi. I excused myself from the meeting and didn’t want to have any influence. I think it’s fair for them to make that decision between themselves and the coaches.
”.
