Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Joseph “Mtororo“ Mthombeni laid to rest in Nkowankowa

By Staff Reporter

NKOWANKOWA-Hundreds of mourners gather at Tivumbeni Multi-Purpose Centre in Nkowankowa to bid a final farewell to former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bloemfontein Celtic player Joseph “Fana” Mthombeni.

Representing Mamelodi Sundowns management, former team captain Daniel “Mambush” Mudau reflects on the time they spent together at the club, describing Mthombeni as a quiet but talented player who let his football do the talking on the pitch.

“He was a quiet person who only spoke through his performance on the field. When he played, the ball showed why he was there with his teammates,” Mudau says.

Programme director and former South African Broadcasting Corporation sports presenter James Shikwambana also pays tribute, saying the area gained recognition for producing talented footballers like Mthombeni.

Born and raised in Mulati Village under the Mohlaba Traditional Council, Mthombeni built a professional football career that saw him play for several clubs including Dynamos FC, University of Pretoria F.C., Mpumalanga Black Aces and Thanda Royal Zulu F.C..

He was discovered at the renowned SAFA School of Excellence before being signed by Mamelodi Sundowns in the early 2000s alongside fellow graduate Sipho Nunes.

Although highly talented and once regarded as a future star, Mthombeni gained experience across different teams during his career, even spending time at a football academy in Brazil.

The 42-year-old passed away in his sleep on 28 February 2026.

He is remembered as a passionate footballer who proudly represented Limpopo in South African professional football.

His family, friends and fans continue to mourn his passing. May his soul rest in peace. 🕊️