Former Golden Arrows captain and veteran defender Nkanyiso Mngwengwe has passed away in the early hours of Monday morning.
The 30-year-old has been with Abafana Bes’thende since joining the club back in 2013 from Umgeni City Movers FC.
Mngwengwe, who had been on the books of the Durban-based outfit for the last seven years, managed to score three goals and assisted a further two from 113 appearances in all competitions.
The news of his untimely passing has been confirmed by his club on their official Twitter page.
‘Lamontville Golden Arrows Football Club would like to confirm the untimely passing away of our footballer Mr Nkanyiso Mngwengwe.
”’Sgora’, as we in the Abafana Bes’thende family affectionately knew him, sadly passed in the early hours of the morning.
‘Mr Mngwengwe made his debut for Arrows in August 2013 and went on to play more than 140 matches for Arrows over the years. He was a dedicated member of Abafana Bes’thende, who was always ready to go the extra mile for the good of the team. His sudden passing leaves a huge void in the team.’
Club chairlady Mato Madlala has also expressed shock and sadness at the loss of the veteran defender and extended her condolences to the Mngwengwe family.
‘I am saddened by the passing away of Nkanyiso. I remember when he first arrived at Arrows as a promising footballer, full of energy. He was always ready to fight for the team and acquitted himself very well over the years.
‘I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Nkayiso’s family. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult moment.’
Official statement regarding the passing of our player, Nkanyiso ‘Sgora’ Mngwengwe. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/emwrJipoFh
— Lamontville Golden Arrows FC (@goldenarrowsfc1) May 18, 2020