An estimated crowd of 30,000 turned out in Durban for the funeral of South Africa captain Senzo Meyiwa on Saturday.
The 27-year-old goalkeeper was fatally wounded after being shot by an intruder while visiting his popstar girlfriend at her Johannesburg home last weekend.
Government officials joined Meyiwa’s club and international team-mates in mourning during an emotional service at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, which was broadcast live on national television.
Durban mayor James Nxumalo led the addresses at the ceremony before Meyiwa’s coffin was taken to the nearby Heroes Acre at Chesterville cemetery for a private burial.
“Death is a thief that has stolen a bright shining light from the nation,” Nxumalo said. “The entire nation is crying. We have all lost. Our condolences to Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana. Our hearts are bleeding.”
South Africa sports minister Fikile Mbalula added: “We’ve got every reason to be angry about Senzo. Justice is grinding and we will find them. We will never rest until we find all of them.”
Meyiwa had been in superb form for South Africa during the recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, keeping clean sheets in their win over Sudan, and victory and a draw against Congo Brazzaville and a goalless clash with defending champions Nigeria.
Johannesburg police have charged 25-year-old Zenokuhle Mbatha with Meyiwa’s murder, and he is scheduled to appear in court on November 11.
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Source: Sky Sports