The South African footballing community is finding itself in shock following the passing of the former Orlando Pirates football player Justin Shonga.
It is reported that the 27-year-old footballer died in hospital on Sunday after suffering brief health complications.
Justin, a Zambian international, first joined Orlando Pirates in 2017 where he entertained Soweto fans with his silky footwork for at least three years before moving on in his career.
He later went on to represent multiple clubs, some of which included Cape Town City FC, Ismaily SC in Egypt as well as Sekhukhune United.
Eventually, he returned to Nwazi where he played before joining the Buccaneers, and FC Gagra in Georgia from 2023 – 2024.
The news publication TshisaLive reported that by the time of his passing, he was registered on the books of a Saudi Arabia-based second-tier team, Najran Sports Club, which he joined in January before his untimely passing.
Meanwhile, fans and football teams have taken time to share their heartfelt condolences following the news of his death.
Among the many were the former club Orlando Pirates.
☠️@orlandopirates is devastated to learn of the passing of our former player, Justin Shonga . Our thoughts go out to his family and friends.
Rest in Peace #JustinShonga?️
⚫⚪?⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/zOY1m3Ze6Z
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) June 30, 2024
Another commented:
⚫?? | SD Mabaya is devastated to learn of the death of soccer player, Justin Shonga. May his soul rest in peace. | #JustinShonga#LeyiIMabaya ? | iYingwe Ya Mabaya! | Madyela henhla! | #MabayaSisonke
Abafana Bok’thula Nothando ??#Tihosi4Life | #TheForces | #SDMabaya pic.twitter.com/xBD9KiB1Nt
— SD Mabaya Football Club (@SDMabaya) July 1, 2024
Meanwhile, Cape Town City also shared their heartfelt condolences.
We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Citizen, Justin Shonga. Our thoughts go out to his friends and family.
RIP Justin ? pic.twitter.com/iulwed68ls
— Cape Town City FC (@CapeTownCityFC) July 1, 2024
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