Lebogang Morula, a former Bafana Bafana midfielder and part of South Africa’s 1998 World Cup squad, was tragically shot and killed outside his family home in Mmakau, North West, on Wednesday evening. The 57-year-old footballer was struck by five bullets as he was closing the gate to his home, just before heading out to buy electricity. The shooting occurred around 7:30 PM, with the assailant firing through his vehicle, leading to Morula’s immediate death.
David Makgale, a former Orlando Pirates player and colleague in the North West Masters Association, confirmed the devastating news, stating, “We have lost a true legend—he was the first player from Brits to represent South Africa at the World Cup in 1998. His death is a significant loss to the football community, and we are committed to giving him a dignified funeral.”
Morula’s football career spanned multiple continents, starting with Jomo Cosmos in 1991 before moving on to play in Colombia for Once Caldas, in Peru for Aurich-Canana, and in Turkey for Vanspor. Despite his promising career on the field, his life after football was troubled, with arrests in 2014 and 2015 for robbery and car theft, although these charges were later dropped.
The football fraternity has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Morula, remembering him for his skill, dedication, and the pride he brought to South African football. Tributes have poured in from fans, teammates, and officials alike, all honoring his legacy and the role he played in elevating South Africa on the international football stage. His passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the challenges faced by athletes once the spotlight fades.
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