Tributes pour in following fatal accident of former Sundowns defender

Social media has been flooded with heartfelt tributes this week following the tragic passing of former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Siyabonga Zulu over the weekend.

The 31-year-old soccer player lost his life in a car accident on Sunday, near Secunda in Mpumalanga.

The accident, which also claimed the life of his teammate Nhlanhla Masina, occurred as the two, along with fellow player Thabo Mosadi, were travelling on the R580.

Phezulu FC, the SAFA ABC Motsepe League side Zulu was part of, confirmed the tragedy in an official statement.

The club’s spokesperson, Kgomotso Malapane, said the accident occurred while the players were travelling to Evander to drop off Masina at his residence.

The players’ vehicle collided with a double-cab van.

“Zulu and Masina’s lives were claimed, and both the players were declared deceased at the scene.”

Malapane added that Mosadi, who was also in the vehicle, survived and is currently in hospital.

“This is a devastating loss for our club, the families of the deceased, and the entire football community.

Zulu and Masina were not only talented athletes but also incredible individuals who brought passion and dedication to the game.”

Malapane said the players’ impact on and off the field will never be forgotten.

The club also requested privacy for the grieving families and promised to share further details regarding the memorial arrangements in due course.

“The club will provide necessary support to those affected, including counselling for teammates and staff.”

The Mamelodi Sundowns team expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their former player.

The Chairman and the Motsepe Family, the Board of Directors, Technical Team, Players, Management, Staff, Supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC & the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of former Mamelodi Sundowns… pic.twitter.com/EZaVKxPiI7

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) February 16, 2025

In a message posted on the club’s X account, the team extended their condolences to the families of both Zulu and Masina.

“The chairman and the Motsepe family, the board of directors, the technical team, players, management, staff, and supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC and the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of former Mamelodi Sundowns player, Siyabonga Zulu, and teammate at Phezulu FC, Nhlanhla Masina.”

The club also remembered Zulu’s contributions to South African football.

It noted that he featured for top-flight teams and represented Bafana Bafana on the international stage.

“We pray that the Almighty gives comfort and strength to the friends and former teammates of Zulu and Masina.

Our thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones, families, and everyone associated with Phezulu FC. May their souls rest in peace.”

Zulu’s death sent shockwaves through the football community. Many fans and supporters took to X to share their tributes.

Very sad news. Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Siyabonga Zulu has sadly passed away 😢 💔. May His Soul Rest In Peace👏🏼🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/JO1y6pKaY0

— Benjamin Nyirenda (@BenjaminNyirend) February 16, 2025

Sad to wake up to news that Siyabonga Zulu the former Mamelodi Sundowns, Black Leopards & Platinum Stars is no more. Apparently, He and a friend died in a car crash.

Rest in Peace 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/kpqjdzc5DW

— Mrs Themba Zwane ❤️💍 (@KhanyisileMana3) February 16, 2025

🕊💔

The South African football community is in deep mourning following the tragic passing of former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates academy product Siyabonga Zulu, along with his teammate Nhlanhla Masina.

GOAL sends its heartfelt condolences to Zulu and Masina’s… pic.twitter.com/7iOHRvqIPJ

— GOAL South Africa (@GOALcomSA) February 16, 2025

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