MBABANE – A dark cloud has engulfed local football following the tragic passing of Manzini Wanderers captain, Mlamuli ‘Mlaba’ Nkambule.
The football fraternity woke up to the shocking news of the ‘Weslians’ versatile player’s death yesterday morning, as social media was abuzz with reports of his passing. A close family relative revealed that the former Mbabane Highlanders midfield maestro had been battling respiratory challenges of late, which are believed to have led to his untimely death at his residence near Queensgate.
“Mlaba had been complaining about chest pains. This morning, he told his helper that he was feeling hot and requested that she pour water on his head,” the family source said.
The source also revealed that after the water was poured, the 31-year-old Mlaba requested that a mattress be placed in the living room to get fresh air, as he felt the heat in his bedroom was too much.
“The helper gave him the mat and he lay down; that was where he met his death,” the source added.
When this publication visited the residence, a group of mourners had already gathered, including members of the Garage Social Team—whom he coached in his spare time—and officers from the Mbabane Police Station. By the time this reporter arrived, ‘Mlaba’s’ body had been loaded into a Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) Forensic Pathology vehicle for transport to the Mbabane Government Hospital.
In an emotional interview, his father, Phumlani Nkambule, himself a former Wanderers player confirmed the heartbreaking news. Nkambule senior disclosed that his son’s breathing difficulties began following an injury sustained during a league match at the Mavuso Sports Centre.
“Yes, it is true that Mlamuli has passed on, but it is doctors who can actually certify him dead,” Nkambule senior said.
The brother to the late Highlanders midfield maestro Tholeni ‘Schuster’ Nkambule reiterated that the breathing challenges started after the match-related injury, but noted the family is awaiting an official medical report.
“We cannot state for now when he will be laid to rest, as this will be communicated in due course,” he added.
His last match in Wanderers colours was during the Ingwenyama Cup Last 32 against Madlenya, which they drew 1-1. The ‘Weslians’ eventually lost that match on penalties, with Mlaba scoring the lone goal for the maroon and white hub giants. He never finished that game as he showed signs of not being well.
Mlaba will be long remembered for his stellar performance during the final edition of the now-defunct EPTC Charity Cup at Somhlolo National Stadium in 2019. Under the leadership of former Managing Director Chief Ally Kgomongwe, Mlaba was instrumental in helping “Inkunzi’emnyama” claim the trophy.
His contributions earned him the Player of the Series title after being named Player of the Match in both the opening fixture against Royal Leopard and the final against Manzini Wanderers—the very club he was representing at the time of his passing.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
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