The South African Football Association (SAFA) has expressed shock and anger at the tragic and sudden passing on of Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates captain Senzo Robert Meyiwa.
The goalkeeper was shot and killed in what is reported to be a robbery in Vosloorus in the East Rand on Sunday, 26 October.
“We are shocked and devastated by the tragic news of South Africa’s current number one goalkeeper and captain of Bafana Bafana. Here was a man who was an integral part of the revolution of our beloved national team under Shakes Mashaba. For him to leave is like this is shocking. As an Association we expected so much from him, the nation had pinned their hopes on him following brilliant displays in the Bafana Bafana jersey, more so in the recent AFCON matches where kept a clean sheet in all four games. We will surely miss him,” said SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan.
“At this time our thoughts are with his family, his club Orlando Pirates, the football family in general. Shakes Mashaba was going to announce his squad to face Sudan and Nigeria on Thursday and I would like to believe Senzo’s name was going to be the first because he has been a pillar of Bafana Bafana in the recent matches, making incredible saves to keep the team in the match. May his soul rest in peace.”
Upon hearing the news of his shooting, a SAFA delegation, which included CEO Dennis Mumble rushed to the hospital where Senzo was taken to and declared dead.
“It is still unreal, the news is just sinking in. We cannot believe he could be gone so soon when he was at the prime of his game for both club and country. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, relatives as well as well as football lovers at large. We will be part of the proceedings to ensure that he gets a dignified burial that he deserves.
As soon as all logistics are in place we will inform the media and public,” said SAFA CEO Dennis Mumble.
Born on 24 September 1987, Senzo played seven times for Bafana Bafana captaining them four times.
He has conceded just one goal – scored by Australian Tim Cahill in a friendly match earlier this year (26 May 2014) in Australia.
Senzo also played in the u17, U20 and U23 national teams of South Africa.
