Michael Nkambule is gone. The former Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United midfielder died on Friday afternoon, two weeks after his vehicle overturned in a serious accident that left him with spinal cord injuries. He was 37.
Family friend and spokesperson Siyabonga Moloi confirmed the news to Soccer Laduma. "His younger brother, who is also a friend of mine, called me with the sad news," Moloi said. "We've been communicating since Michael was admitted to hospital, and he kept me updated on his condition."
Nkambule was alone when the accident happened. He was first taken to Far East Rand Hospital, then transferred to Johannesburg General where surgeons operated on his spine. The operation was declared a success. He was moved back to Far East Rand Hospital — and that's where he died.
From Etwatwa to Strasbourg and back
His career had a shape that most South African footballers never get close to. He started with amateur side Brazil in Etwatwa, moved through Kaizer Chiefs' youth structures, and earned a move to French club Strasbourg as a teenager. He didn't break into the first team in France, but few do. The fact that he got there at all, from Daveyton, said something about the quality he had.
Back in South Africa, he played in the PSL for SuperSport United, spent three years at Kaizer Chiefs, and later turned out for Black Leopards. After retiring from professional football, he stayed in the game — playing in legends matches for Ditlhake Masters alongside former Bafana Bafana internationals, and co-owning a football club in Etwatwa with Moloi himself.
"Michael and I co-owned a football club in Etwatwa, so this is devastating for me," Moloi said. "I'm speaking to you from his family home, where relatives have gathered."
Tributes are coming in from across South African football. Details of the memorial and funeral are expected from the family in the coming days.
