Senzo Meyiwa was a South African professional footballer who was a goalkeeper for Orlando Pirates and the South African national team. He was born on September 24, 1987, in Umlazi, Durban, South Africa. Meyiwa was a talented player with a successful football career and was known for his skills on the pitch.
In October 2014, Meyiwa was tragically shot and killed in a robbery at his girlfriend’s house in Vosloorus, Johannesburg. His death shocked the nation and left his family, friends, and fans devastated. The incident also sparked a high-profile murder trial that has been ongoing for several years. The trial has been marked by controversy and has attracted significant media attention, with many people following the case and hoping for justice to be served.
Despite the tragedy of his death, Meyiwa’s legacy as a talented footballer and a beloved member of the South African community lives on.
Early Life
Senzo Meyiwa was born in Durban, South Africa, on September 24, 1987. He grew up with both of his parents, who guided and cared for his basic needs. Meyiwa started playing soccer at a young age, and his talent was quickly recognized. He joined the Orlando Pirates reserves at 13 and was promoted to the senior team in July 2005.
Meyiwa’s early life was marked by a passion for soccer and a desire to succeed. He was known for his dedication to the sport and worked hard to improve his skills. His talent and hard work paid off, and he quickly became one of the most promising young players in South Africa.
Despite his challenges growing up, Meyiwa remained focused on his goals. He was determined to succeed and worked tirelessly to achieve his dreams. His early life was marked by a strong work ethic, a passion for soccer, and a desire to make a difference in the world.
Age
He died at age 30.
Football Career
Club Career
Senzo Meyiwa started his football career at 13 when he joined the academy of the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) team, Orlando Pirates. He worked his way through the ranks and eventually became the team’s first-choice goalkeeper in 2012.
While at Orlando Pirates, Meyiwa won several silverware, including two PSL titles, one Nedbank Cup, one MTN8 Cup, and one Telkom Knockout Cup. He was also named the PSL goalkeeper of the season in the 2013/2014 season.
International Career
Meyiwa debuted for the South African national team in 2013 in a friendly match against Lesotho. He became the team’s first-choice goalkeeper and was named the team’s captain in August 2014.
Tragically, Meyiwa’s international career was cut short when he was shot and killed in a home invasion in October 2014. He had made six appearances for the national team at the time of his death.
Despite his short international career, Meyiwa was widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in South Africa. He was known for his agility, shot-stopping ability, and leadership skills on the field.
Personal Life
Marriage
Senzo Meyiwa was married to Mandisa Mkhize at the time of his death. They tied the knot in 2013 and had two children together. However, their marriage was not without controversy. In 2014, it was reported that Senzo was allegedly having an affair with singer and actress Kelly Khumalo, who was also his girlfriend at the time of his death. Mandisa, Senzo’s wife, was reportedly not happy about the situation and even threatened to sue Kelly for damages.
Children
Senzo Meyiwa had three children in total. His first child, a daughter named Nqobile, was born in 2004 to his then-girlfriend, Matlala Mokona. Senzo had two children with his wife, Mandisa Mkhize: a daughter named Senzie and a son named Mawenza.
Senzo was known to be a devoted father who loved spending time with his children. In an interview with Drum magazine, he said, “I love my kids and try to be there for them as much as I can. They are my everything, and I will do anything for them.”
Despite his tragic death, Senzo Meyiwa will always be remembered as a loving father and husband who impacted South African football.
Senzo Meyiwa’s Death
On October 26, 2014, Senzo Meyiwa, the former goalkeeper of Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana, was shot and killed at his girlfriend Kelly Khumalo’s mother’s house in Vosloorus. According to The South African, the incident was an alleged botched armed robbery. Still, Advocate Gerrie Nel, Head of AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit, believes that Meyiwa’s murder was a contract killing. Nel insists that the evidence being led so far in court points to a hit and not a robbery, as is believed by some.
As of November 2023, the case is still ongoing, and five men have been accused of Meyiwa’s murder. According to IOL, the case has been postponed several times for various reasons, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the unavailability of witnesses.
Meyiwa’s death was a great loss to the South African soccer community. He was a talented goalkeeper who played for Orlando Pirates for many years and served as the captain of the South African national team. Meyiwa was only 27 years old at the time of his death, and he left behind his wife, Mandisa Mkhize and their two children.
Investigation and Trial
Initial Investigation
Following the murder of Senzo Meyiwa on October 26, 2014, the South African Police Service (SAPS) launched an investigation to find the perpetrators. The initial investigation was marred by controversy, with allegations of incompetence and corruption against the police.
However, in 2017, the SAPS made a breakthrough in the case when they arrested five suspects. The suspects were charged with murder, attempted murder, and robbery with aggravating circumstances. The suspects were Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Bongani Sandiso Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Mncube, Mthokoziseni Ziphozonke Maphisa, and Sifiso Ntuli.
Trial Updates
The trial of the suspects began in October 2021, seven years after the murder of Senzo Meyiwa. The trial has been marked by several delays, with the defence repeatedly challenging the admissibility of evidence presented by the prosecution.
In July 2023, the trial was restarted from scratch after the presiding judge recused himself. The trial is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.
It is important to note that all suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The trial is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the murder of Senzo Meyiwa and provide closure for his family and loved ones.
Legacy and Impact
Senzo Meyiwa’s untimely death on October 26, 2014, left a lasting impact on South African football and the nation as a whole. Meyiwa was a talented goalkeeper who played for Orlando Pirates and the South African national team, Bafana Bafana. He was only 27 years old at the time of his death.
Meyiwa’s legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans. His contribution to South African football is undeniable, and he will always be remembered as a talented and dedicated player. His death was a tragedy, and it left a void in the football world that has yet to be filled.
The investigation into Meyiwa’s death is ongoing, and there are still many unanswered questions. The trial of five suspects, including Meyiwa’s wife, Mandisa Mkhize, and his former girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo, is set to begin on May 19, 2023. The trial will hopefully bring closure to Meyiwa’s family and friends and shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death.
Despite the tragedy of Meyiwa’s death, his legacy continues to inspire young footballers in South Africa. His dedication, talent, and passion for the game serve as an example for aspiring players, and his memory will always be honoured in the football community.
In conclusion, Senzo Meyiwa’s life and career were cut short, but his impact on South African football will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.
