Mondli Cele 'had a bright future'
Maritzburg United player, Mondli Cele has been described as a rough diamond by the football fraternity.
The 27-year-old was tragically killed in a car accident in Pietermaritzburg at the weekend.
Cele, originally from the Folweni area on the south coast, netted the opening goal for his side in the thrilling 3-3 tie against Pirates at Harry Gwala Stadium on Saturday.
Although the exact cause of the crash is still unclear, it’s understood Cele lost control of the vehicle in heavy rain.
Club chairman Farouk Kadodia says the team will undergo counselling following Cele’s sudden and tragic death.
"Over the last season the coaches basically all saw his potential and you could see the current coach used him in a very effective role. He scored a goal last week as well as last night and I think there were so much brighter things for him and that is what saddens the club," he said.
Last night's heart-breaking image of Mondli Cele, 27, gone too soon. #RIPMondliCele pic.twitter.com/FyQlvLXnVJ
— Neal Collins (@nealcol) January 17, 2016Our deepest condolences to the family of @MaritzburgUtd midfielder Mondli Cele, who passed away tragically last night in an accident.
— Orlando Pirates FC (@Orlando_Pirates) January 17, 2016May his family be comforted by the memory of their son, & may his soul rest in peace.
— Orlando Pirates FC (@Orlando_Pirates) January 17, 2016It's really sad to hear this that umkhaya Wami Mondli Cele passed away last nite RIP boy u will be remembered. pic.twitter.com/SX3OQ4oaen
— Ayanda (@GcabaAyanda) January 17, 2016Our deepest condolences to @MaritzburgUtd on the tragic passing of player Mondli Cele.Our hearts also go out to the the Cele family& friends
— Adv Thuli Madonsela (@ThuliMadonsela3) January 17, 2016