South Africa star Papi Khomane dies at 48 in horror car crash alongside mum and uncle on way to funeral | The Sun

SOUTH AFRICA international Papi Khomane has died in a horrific car smash – that also claimed the lives of his mother and uncle.

The former defender, 48, won nine caps for Bafana Bafana.

Khomane played for Johannesburg club Jomo Cosmos and Soweto-based Orlando Pirates, captaining the latter side.

But he and his two relatives were killed on Saturday as they drove to a funeral at Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal province.

The cause of the tragic accident has not yet been revealed.

Khomane and his dad Yster had both played for Orlando, nicknamed the Buccaneers.

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He helped South Africa to a third-place finish at the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations.

The club said: "Orlando Pirates are saddened to learn of the passing away of former captain Papi Khomane.

"His transformation from a quiet individual into a formidable leader during games was nothing short of inspirational.

"During his nine years with us Papi made over 150 appearances, each time exemplifying what it meant to be a Buccaneer.

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"We cannot speak of Papi and Yster Khomane without honouring the remarkable woman behind their successes – Mrs Rita Khomane.

"Rita was the cornerstone of support for both her husband and her son."

Several Premier League stars were international team-mates of Khomane 23 years ago.

Leeds United legend Lucas Radebe was alongside him in defence along with ex-Bolton and Charlton ace Mark Fish.

Former Chelsea man Pierre Issa was also part of the squad, along with striker Shaun Bartlett and Manchester United icon Quinton Fortune.

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