Orlando Pirates Football Club is mourning the passing of one of its former strikers, Tendai Ndoro, who passed away in his Johannesburg apartment.
Tendai, a Zimbabwean international, represented several South African clubs, including Mpumalanga Black Aces, Highlands Park, Ajax Cape Town, and the Buccaneers, where he spent two seasons between 2015 and 2017.
While the exact details surrounding his death remain uncertain, the footballer affectionately referred to as “Fire” has been known to be fighting diabetes. This previously led to his retirement in 2020.
In May this year, he underwent surgery to remove a tumour under his armpit. It was later confirmed that this was unrelated to diabetes, as previously speculated.
Despite the setback, he remained in good spirits and thanked God for his grace.
At the time, he posted, “Congratulations to myself for the successful surgery I had this afternoon. It went well; the tumour in my hand was removed. Glory to the Almighty God for keeping us alive.”
In a post shared on Instagram, the club and its management shared a touching tribute in honour of the late player’s legacy.
”Orlando Pirates Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former striker, Tendai Ndoro (2015–2017). The club extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time,” they wrote.
Orlando Pirates Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former striker, Tendai Ndoro (2015–2017).
The club extend heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/hJQzjWgxe5
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) August 18, 2025
Since then, fans from all walks of life have shared tribute messages on social media platforms reflecting on some of the joys he brought them.
So heartbreaking 💔 Tendai Ndoro will always be remembered for the joy he brought to the game and the memories he gave us. My deepest condolences to his family and the entire Pirates family. May his soul rest in peace 🕊️⚫⚪🔴⭐.
— ZoeM 😌 | Chaos & Charisma (@ZolekaMaseko15) August 18, 2025
🤍⚽️☠️ We will never forget him. 2016/17 Made his name.
May his soul REST IN PEACE— Tsonga King ☠️ (@NtateWilliams) August 18, 2025
The football star was 40 at the time of his passing.
Also see: Orlando Pirates fans call for Abongile Tom to stay ready to officiate Nedbank Cup final
