‘Ndezi’ inspired, touched many - Mashwama
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MANZINI
These were the words of Lubombo Regional Football Association (LRFA) Chairperson Nicodemus ‘Ace’ Mashwama, who spoke on behalf of the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) President Peter ‘Samora’ Simelane.
Mashwama said that the late Bongani ‘Ndezi’ Masangane, also known as ‘Mgababa,’would always be remembered as one of the best players to come out of the country.
He made this statement during yesterday’s emotional memorial service held at the Prince Mfanyana Hall at Manzini Central High School. “On behalf of the Eswatini Football Association, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to the entire soccer community for the loss of our legendary player ‘Ndezi’, who will always be remembered as one of the best players our country has ever had.
“The passing of Bongani has come as a great shock to us, as we were not aware of any reports of his illness. I would like to express my condolences to his family, friends and all those who knew him,” he said.
Highlanders Public Relations Officer (PRO) Kenneth Dlamini said the news of the legendary player’s passing was very shocking and sudden.
“We are truly heartbroken by the unexpected passing of Bongani Masangane, who was known as Ndezi. He was a great representative of our team in Africa and we extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends and all those who knew him, especially his children,” Dlamini said.
Legend
Former Eswatini international John ‘Junior Shisa’ Mdluli, who spoke on behalf of Eswatini soccer legends, expressed his deep heartbreak at the passing of the soccer legend. Mdluli said Ndezi was like a brother to him and that he loved his deep faith in the Lord, who he believed was his Saviour.
“While only God knows why my friend had to pass away, he has left us with a mandate to continue doing good deeds for others. Ndezi was always reminding us about the Bible and while his passing is sad, I will always remember him for the kind and caring person he was,” he said.
Meanwhile, one of ‘Ndezi’s oldest children, Philiswa Masangane, expressed her shock and pain at the passing of her father. She expressed hope that she and her sister would remain together and united in this difficult time.
“I hope that my sister and I will continue to honour our father’s memory and maintain our strong bond, supporting and loving each other the way our father loved us,” she said.
The funeral was attended by over 300 soccer lovers from across the country, including Manzini Deputy Mayor Wesley Dlamini, representatives from the EFA and legends from Mbabane Highlanders such as Menzi ‘Flying Ghost’ Sibiya, Sifiso ‘Barnes’ Mkhulisi, Mxolisi ‘Nana’ Dlamini and Sipho ‘City’ Sibandze.
(More reports in next publication)