Reports have confirmed that ex-Sundowns footballer Anele Ngcongca has passed away.
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Anele Ngcongca who was on loan at Amazulu passed away in a car accident in the early hours of this morning. pic.twitter.com/ubIMh4jRey
— Man’s NOT Barry Roux (@AdvoBarryRoux) November 23, 2020
Anele Ngcongca dies: What’s the cause of death?
Details surrounding the incident are still sketchy. However, we can confirm that the 33-year-old was involved in a car accident in the wee hours of Monday morning.
It is still unclear where in Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) the accident took place. Ngcongca’s family has yet to issue a statement with more information on the tragic death of the footballer.
Ngcongca will forever be remembered for his unique style of play that saw him rise to prominence in international football.
Remembering Ngongca: A well-decorated Bafana veteran
Even at 33, he dominated the flanks as a right-back. With his long exposure to European football, Ngcongca helped Mamelodi Sundowns to three Premier Soccer League (PSL) titles, a Nedbank Cup as well as the Telkom Knockout in a span of three seasons.
Before that, Ngcongca was a key part of the super club Genk where he won the Belgian Cup twice, in 2008-09 and 2012-13, the Belgian Pro League in 2010-11 and the Belgian Super Cup.
After something close to a decade in Belgium, Ngcongca joined Sundowns in 2016, led by Pitso Mosimane.
Before his tragic death, the veteran right-back was due to kickstart his road to retirement with a return to Belgian football at Roeselare FC.
Fans of the footballer took to social media to share their shock and disbelief over the news of Ngcongca’s death.
Anele Ngcongca has passed away in car accident. #RIPAnele
— Thomas Mlambo (@thomasmlambo) November 23, 2020
3 times a Premiership Winner in SA
Belgium League Winner
CAF Super Cup Winner
Over 50 caps for Bafana Bafana
The loss to South African Football is immeasurable
To his family, friends @Masandawana
My deepest Condolences pic.twitter.com/Yo6JZKUqAw
Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana defender Anele Ngcongca has passed on this morning. Rest in peace.
— Usher Komugisha (@UsherKomugisha) November 23, 2020
Another day, another road accident claims the life of a South African footballer. Gift Leremi, Mondli Cele, Richard Henyekane, Lesley Manyathela and Cecil Lolo. Tragic! pic.twitter.com/HszdEAyI1c
Please note that the cockpit of Anele's car is intact, has room and there wasn't much damage inside because the crumple zones outside the car have absorbed all the impact.
— Raymond Monty Maboea (@RayMaboya) November 23, 2020
So another case of someone losing their lives because they didn't strap a seatbelt!
A Thread pic.twitter.com/WPhKI6yAAl
More details will follow once more information is received.