‘We’ll win the trophy for you’, Mphahlele’s promise to late Ntuli

Ramahlwe Mphahlele, from AmaZulu FC, has made a heartfelt promise to his late teammate, Bongi Ntuli, during the funeral on Thursday. 

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Tearfully leading the Usuthu team in bidding farewell, Mphahlele pledged that they would give their all to win the Carling Knockout in Ntuli’s memory. 

Ntuli passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness, having been recently diagnosed with cancer, discovered too late for effective treatment.

Mphahlele, who previously played for Kaizer Chiefs, expressed the team’s commitment to playing every game in Ntuli’s memory. 

With just two games left to win the Carling Knockout, Mphahlele confidently stated, “When we win it – I’m not saying ‘if’ because we will win it – we will bring it here to Cato Ridge to you, Bongi.”

Ntuli tried to return to training while visibly ill

The sudden loss of Ntuli, who attempted to return to training despite his visible illness, shocked many. 

Mphahlele extended his condolences to the Ntuli family and his recently married wife, Sinenjabulo Zungu. 

AmaZulu’s chief executive and president Sandile Zungu’s daughter, Sinenjabulo, had recently married Ntuli, who was set to undergo a traditional wedding ceremony on the day he passed.

“Mr Ntuli, (Bongi’s father) I do not know what it is like to lose a son. To you, Sne, I don’t know what it’s like to lose someone you love. 

“What I can say is that at this time you always pray,”

Describing Ntuli as a dedicated soldier always ready to fight for the team, Mphahlele acknowledged the significant loss AmaZulu had suffered. 

“We have lost our brother and a lot of goals. I don’t know where Mr Zungu will get another striker like Bongi. Rest in peace my brother.”

AmaZulu will resume play in a DStv Premiership match against Lamontville Golden Arrows on Sunday. 

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In the Carling Knockout, they are scheduled to face TS Galaxy in the semi-finals in early December, while their league game against Mamelodi Sundowns was postponed by the PSL.