Online Reporter
Zimbabwean football was plunged into mourning on Monday following the death of celebrated international striker Tendai Ndoro.
Ndoro, was reportedly found dead in his Sandton apartment in South Africa.
Zimpapers Sports Hub will give us live updates on the proceedings towards the burial of the former Warriors, Chicken FC and Orlando Pirates player.
Tributes pour in as Tendai Ndoro is remembered
TRIBUTES have been pouring in from across the football world following the sudden and tragic passing of former Zimbabwe international striker Tendai Ndoro, who was found dead in his Sandton apartment on Monday.
Ndoro, who rose to prominence with Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League side Chicken Inn, went on to enjoy a successful professional career that took him to South Africa and the Middle East. He featured for Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town, and most notably Orlando Pirates, where he played from 2015 to 2017.
He also had a stint with Al-Faisaly in Saudi Arabia and represented the Zimbabwe national team at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
In a heartfelt statement, Orlando Pirates Football Club said they were “deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former striker, Tendai Ndoro. We extend heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Back home, Highlanders Football Club expressed sorrow at the loss, describing Ndoro as a player who elevated the national game. “We extend our deepest condolences to the Ndoro family, friends, and the entire Zimbabwean football community for this tragic loss,” read part of the club’s statement. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) echoed similar sentiments, saying Ndoro’s career brought joy to fans and that his contribution to the beautiful game will remain etched in Zimbabwe’s football history.
“LET’S CELEBRATE TENDAI NDORO’S LIFE!” Grieving parents’ rallying call following Warriors star’s death
GRIEF has engulfed Nketa 8 as the parents of the late Warriors and Orlando Pirates striker Tendai Ndoro described him as a peace-loving son whose death has left them shattered.
Ndoro (40), who also turned out for Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town and Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly, was found dead on Monday in his Sandton apartment, South Africa.
At the family home in Bulawayo, his mother, Mrs Christina Mukundwa, called on all who once shared the pitch with Ndoro to celebrate his life.
“I invite all who played with Tendai to come and celebrate his life as someone who they played football with. There are many things that Tendai did for us as a family and we can’t mention all, but God knows what he did for us and he has taken him back,” she said.
His father, Mr Silas Mukundwa, said the family was still demanding answers on what exactly happened to their son.
“Tendai was soft spoken, he loved singing, he loved being at peace with everything. As a family we are waiting to hear more what happened to Tendai. As his parents we are devastated that he died and we have lost a son and it is painful to accept. We want to thank all those who were playing with him and his friends,” he said.
Mourners are gathered at number 1916 Nketa 8, where Ndoro’s legacy is being remembered.
Meanwhile, Zimpapers Sports Hub established that soccer legends and ex-Warriors in South Africa had started gathering at Ndoro’s Sandton apartment where his body was discovered.
Former CAPS United and Warriors star Edelbert Dinha was already present alongside representatives from Zororo-Phumulani, with reports that former Warriors captain Peter Ndlovu was on his way. Police were yet to arrive, leaving family members and friends waiting downstairs.
Ndoro’s career kicked off at Chicken Inn before he crossed the Limpopo, becoming one of the most feared strikers in the DStv Premiership and earning his Warriors call-up for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
FOREVER A GAMECOCK: Chicken Inn hail Ndoro
FORMER Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) champions Chicken Inn have mourned the death of their former player Tendai “Fire” Ndoro.
According to his family, Ndoro, a nimble-footed player who was bred in Bulawayo’s Nketa suburb, died in South Africa on Monday evening after a long battle with diabetes
“Our first import and export. We got him from Nico in Botswana. He came and added fire to our team.
Forever a gamecock. We are deeply saddened by his passing on as Chicken Inn Fc. His light will forever shine in our hearts. Liqhawe Lethu. Rest Easy Fire,” said Chicken Inn spokesperson Nkululeko Nkala.
Ndoro’s passing has left hordes of local football lovers and those in Mzansi disturbed.
His burial arrangements are to be announced.
“A mentor mourns a star.”
Ex-Warriors and Highlanders coach Mandla “Lulu” Mpofu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Zimbabwe international striker Tendai “Fire” Ndoro.
Mpofu, who guided Ndoro at clubs including Chicken Inn, Railstars, and Kujatana, described him as a talented, humble, and hard-working player whose loss leaves a huge void in Zimbabwean football.
Chicken Inn longtime marshal mourns the late Ndoro
Long-time Chicken Inn marshal and supporter Meli Douglas Ndlovu has mourned the passing on their former player Tendai “Fire” Ndoro.
Ndoro, who was Gamecocks first import and export, died on Monday in South Africa at the age of 40.
“I’m really pained by the death of Ndoro. It’s unfortunate that we have lost him. He died in a faraway country and we don’t mind that he went to play for other clubs. He played very well,” said a dejected Ndlovu.
The late Ndoro is a 2013 former Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) Golden Boot Winner and Soccer Star of the Year finalist.
Ndoro, who also turned out for Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town and Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly, was found dead in his Sandton apartment in South Africa.
Mourners are gathered at the family home, number 1976, Nketa 8 in Bulawayo.
Tendai Ndoro to be laid to rest in Zimbabwe
EX-WARRIORS, Chicken Inn and Orlando Pirates striker Tendai Ndoro’s father, Mr Silas Mukundwa, has said that, although the family cannot as yet share detailed burial plans, the late football star will be laid to rest in Zimbabwe.
Ndoro (40), who also turned out for Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town and Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly, was found dead on Monday in his Sandton apartment in South Africa.
“For now, we cannot say much about his burial arrangements. We are yet to know the date we are going to bury him, but he will be laid to rest in Zimbabwe. We are still waiting to hear about the arrangements that are being made by those who are running around in South Africa,” said Mukundwa.
Ndoro’s body taken for post-mortem in SA
THE body of the late ex-Warriors, Orlando Pirates and Chicken Inn striker was taken for forensics in South Africa on Tuesday as the family seeks to ascertain the cause of his death.
Ndoro (40), who also turned out for Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town and Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly, was found dead on Monday in his Sandton apartment in South Africa.
‘Yes, it’s true, his boy was taken for post mortem on Tuesday,” said Ndoro’s father Silas Mukundwa.
Ndoro’s remains were reportedly found several days after his passing on.
The exact details leading to Ndoro’s death are still to be confirmed, but it is understood that he was alone at the time.
The late Ndoro will be buried in Zimbabwe at a date yet to be announced.
Ndoro family asks for privacy, respect as they mourn passing of football star
THE family of the late ex-Warriors forward Tendai “Fire” Ndoro has pleaded for respect and privacy as they mourn the passing of the footie star.
Ndoro was found dead in his apartment in South Africa on Monday.
In a statement, the Ndoro family said: “We appreciate all the love and support and condolences that have been extended to his family and all his loved ones thus far. He was a man of the people and loved soccer with all his heart. We honour his achievements and his legacy and with your support, he catapulted to great heights. We kindly ask that you allow us time to prepare for his send-off and to heal. We kindly ask that you respect the family as they grieve at this time. All details for the memorial service will be duly communicated to everyone.”
Ndoro’s body was taken for a postmortem on Tuesday in South Africa.
Ndoro’s memorial service on this evening
THE memorial service of the late Warriors and Orlando Pirates striker Tendai “Fire” Ndoro will be conducted this evening at Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) Church in Kempton Park, South Africa.
Ndoro (40), who also turned out for Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town and Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly, was found dead on Monday in his Sandton apartment in South Africa.
“Zororo Phumulani will conduct the repatriation from Johannesburg to Bulawayo. The memorial service will be conducted on Thursday from 6pm to 8:30pm at AFM Kempton Park, 5 Willow Street,” reads a notice.
Zimbabwe-based mourners are gathered at the family home, number 1976 Nketa 8 in Bulawayo.
“Tendai Ndoro Was More Than a Striker” — ZIFA President Magwizi Pays Tribute to Late Warriors Star
ZIMBABWE Football Association (ZIFA) President Nqobile Magwizi has paid an emotional tribute to the late former Warriors striker Tendai Ndoro, describing him as “more than a striker” and “a beacon of hope and inspiration.”
Ndoro, who passed away in Johannesburg over the weekend, left behind a legacy that touched millions of fans and inspired a generation of aspiring footballers.
“Tendai Ndoro was more than a striker; he was a beacon of hope and inspiration to many aspiring footballers,” said Magwizi. “His passion, skill, and determination made him a true Warrior.”
Magwizi highlighted Ndoro’s dedication to the national team, praising the pride with which he wore the Warriors jersey and the joy he brought to Zimbabwean football fans throughout his career.
“He wore the Warriors jersey with pride and distinction, and his name will forever be honoured in the history of our football. His contribution to the national team and to Zimbabwean football will always be remembered.”
On behalf of ZIFA, Magwizi extended heartfelt condolences to Ndoro’s family, friends, and loved ones, reaffirming the Association’s support during this time of grief.
“As the football family mourns this loss, ZIFA stands in solidarity with the Ndoro family and will continue to offer its support during this difficult time.”
Magwizi also took a moment to thank Zimbabwean football legends and members of the South Africa-based community who supported the Ndoro family, as well as funeral services provider Zororo-Phumulani for their assistance.
“Their compassion is a reflection of the unity and strength that football brings,” he said.
All set for the Memorial Service of Tendai Ndoro at AFM church in Kemptom Park Johannesburg
A memorial service for former Warriors and Orlando Pirates striker Tendai “Fire” Ndoro is underway at the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) Church in Kempton Park, South Africa.
The service is scheduled to run up to 8.30 pm, is taking place at the church’s premises on 5 Willow Street.
Ndoro, aged 40, was found dead on Monday at his apartment in Sandton, Johannesburg. He had a successful football career, having played for South African clubs Mpumalanga Black Aces and Ajax Cape Town, as well as for Al-Faisaly in Saudi Arabia. Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Ndoro was also a prominent figure in the Zimbabwe national team.
Funeral services company Zororo Phumulani has been entrusted with the repatriation of his body from Johannesburg to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, where burial arrangements are expected to be finalised.
The company has been working closely with both South African and Zimbabwean authorities to ensure a smooth process. Mourners are gathered at the Ndoro family home at 1976 Nketa 8 in Bulawayo.
Fifa and Saudis Mourn Ndoro
FIFA and the Saudi Arabia Football Federation have joined the Ndoro family and soccer lovers in mourning one of the best football exports to come out of Bulawayo, Tendai.
He was found dead at his Sandton apartment in Johannesburg, South Africa on Monday.
At the time of his death, he was 40.
World football boss, Gianni Infantino, sent his condolences to Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi.
“I would like to express my sincere and heartfelt condolences on the passing of former international player, Tendai Ndoro. Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel for this loss.
“During his international career, Tendai Ndoro was regularly capped by Zimbabwe and notably participated in the 2017 Caf African Cup of Nations. At club level, he defended the colours of Chicken Inn in his home country, as well as several South African clubs, including Orlando Pirates FC. He also played in Saudi Arabia and Oman.
“Legend of Zimbabwe football, known for his talent and resilience, inspiration for many young footballers, his legacy and achievements, and in particular his personality, his leadership, his popularity and his human qualities will not be forgotten, and he will be truly missed,” wrote the Fifa president.
He continued, “We hope that these memories and our words of support may help bring some peace and solace at this difficult time.”
After an impressive run in good form in South Africa where he started at Mpumalanga Black Aces and moved to Ajax Cape Town before the bigger stage at Orlando Pirates, Ndoro broke new ground for Zimbabweans by joining Al-Faisaly of Saudi Arabia.
In a letter addressed to Zifa president Magwizi, the Saudi Football Federation wrote: “It is with immense sadness that we learnt of the passing of Mr Tendai Ndoro, the former veteran striker of the Zimbabwe National Team. On behalf of the Saudi Football Federation (SAFF) and the entire Saudi football family, we express our deepest sympathies to Mr Ndoro’s family and friends during this difficult time.
“May God bless his soul and provide his loved ones with comfort and serenity.”
The letter was signed by federation president Yasser H Almisehal.
In Zimbabwe, the former Ihlathi pupil played for Select Stars, Bulawayo Arsenal, Railstars and Chicken Inn who catapulted him to better recognition, resulting in a move the more lucrative South African Premiership.
Ndoro remembered as Bulawayo’s football son
THE City of Bulawayo has joined the nation and the wider football fraternity in mourning the untimely passing of former Warriors and Orlando Pirates striker Tendai Ndoro, who died in Johannesburg earlier this week.
In a heartfelt statement, the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) paid tribute to the late footballer, describing him as a “proud son of Bulawayo” who inspired many through his talent and achievements on the pitch.
“The City of Bulawayo joins the Ndoro family and the wider football fraternity in mourning the passing of footballer Tendai Ndoro. A proud son of Bulawayo, hailing from Nketa suburb, Tendai Ndoro served as an inspiration to many across the City, demonstrating that talent, when nurtured, can lead to success,” read part of the statement from BCC.
Ndoro, who was 40 years old, was reportedly found dead at his Sandton apartment in Johannesburg on Monday. His death has sent shockwaves across Southern Africa, where he was widely known and admired for his skills and flair on the field.
The statement from BCC also highlighted the former striker’s contribution to promoting the city’s image through sport.
“Sport has become an important vehicle for promoting the City of Bulawayo, and we remain deeply grateful to Tendai Ndoro for raising the City’s profile through his achievements on the field of play.”
Ndoro rose to fame playing for Chicken Inn in the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League before securing a move to South Africa, where he featured for top-flight clubs including Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town, and most notably, Orlando Pirates. He also had a stint in the Saudi Professional League with Al-Faisaly.
He proudly donned the national colours, representing Zimbabwe’s Warriors on numerous occasions and earning praise for his attacking prowess.
As the football community continues to pay tribute to one of Bulawayo’s finest exports, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) has confirmed that all Matchday 26 fixtures will observe a moment of silence in honour of the late striker.
