Orlando Pirates has confirmed the passing of a former star player – Papi Khomane – who tragically died in a car crash over the weekend.

The ex Buccaneer – who died alongside his mother and brother-in-law- was en route to a family funeral in Newcastle.

 
ORLANDO PIRATES CONFIRMS DEATH OF EX-PLAYER
In a statement released over the weekend, Orlando Pirates confirmed the death of retired player Papi Khomane.

The team described the star – who also played for Jomo Cosmos – as a “man of few words, whose presence on the pitch spoke volumes.”

It added: “His transformation from a quiet individual into a formidable leader during games was nothing short of inspirational.”

PAPI KHOMANE: 5 FACTS ABOUT SOCCER STAR
Papi Khomane joined Orlando Pirates in 1998 and made 150 appearances for the team until he left in 2007. During his time at the club, he was made captain of the squad.
He played for Bafana Bafana from 1998 to 2000 and appeared at the Africa Cup Of Nations in 2000, where SA won a bronze medal.
According to iDiski Times, Papi Khomane won two league titles between the 2000/01 and 2002/03 seasons and the BP Top Eight also in 2001.
His father, Johannes “Yster,” was also an Orlando Pirates player who played in the 70s.
After his soccer career, Papi reportedly went into framing in the small Free State town of Heilbron. According to his LinkedIn page, his last position was that of a company director that supplied oil and petroleum products.