R.I.P., GEORGE CHIGOVA

Last Wednesday, November 15, the football fraternity was dealt yet another blow following the death of George Chigova, who succumbed to an illness.

The goalkeeper was last on the books of SuperSport United, having rejoined the club in 2020 from Polokwane City. He had initially arrived in Mzansi in 2014 from Zimbabwean side Dynamos.

His career was affected after he was diagnosed with a heart issue in July this year.

He was 32 at the time of his passing, and according to SuperSport, the shot-stopper had been out of contract, though he continued to train with the team.

A memorial service was held in Kempton Park on Tuesday in honour of the star, before his body was repatriated the following day for his funeral scheduled for Saturday in Chivhu in Zimbabwe.

Football agent Ratshibvumo Mulovhedzi, who was close to Chigova, paid a glowing tribute, speaking exclusively to the Siya crew.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of George Chigova as he was very close to me, and we were like brothers. I couldn’t believe the news of his passing, even though I knew he’d not been feeling well,” said Mulovhedzi.

“I first met the guy when he was playing for Polokwane City, and we just clicked because I could tell he was a good person. At the time, one of my clients who is a coach, Jozef Vukusic, was coaching the club and I became close to George. As someone who’s used to supplying footballers with soccer boots as part of my business, he became one of the guys I sometimes gave boots to, and we were both fine with it. I am deeply hurt and may his soul rest in peace,” added the intermediary.

Soccer Laduma sends condolences to the family and friends of the fallen star during this difficult time.