Three young footballers from the SAFA Vhembe region in Limpopo who passed away during a horrific N1 accident were laid to rest on Saturday.
Tshimangadzo Rasweswe (23) of Elim United, Vongani Chuma (22) of Koki FC and Mbuyelo Ramaru (23) died when their car collided with another vehicle on the N1 Levubu/Elim T-Junction on Sunday, 28 August.
The video sent shock waves around the country and went viral across different social media platforms. Their car, travelling from the N1 South, was hit by a speeding bakkie while attempting to turn towards the Elim road.
A white Yaris could be seen slowly taking a right turn in the clip. A red bakkie was on high speed, coming just ahead of it. They died on the spot while a fourth player remains in hospital.
The players were on their way from a soccer tournament in Botlokwa, 50km from Polokwane.
The three players were buried on Saturday, 3 September, at Shirley, Elim and Vleifontein, respectively, within the Vhembe region. The funerals were attended by the region’s football leaders and their teammates.
SAFA Vhembe region, led by president Jabulani Ndobe has sent a message of condolences to the families of the deployed players.
“The SAFA Vhembe president conveys a message of Condolences to the families of the three players who lost their lives in an accident last Sunday,” said Ndobe in a statement sent to FARPost.
“After having learned of the tragedy, a delegate from the Association led by the Treasurer visited the families and, on behalf of the president, attended the Memorial service.
“It is sad news to the football family. May their Souls rest in Peace and wish the injured player recovery,” he said.
Elim United and Koki FC compete in the SAFA Vhembe MMK Administrator’s league, while Vleifontein United compete in the Makhado LFA league.