Kaizer Chiefs received a call from one of the supporters who said to have discovered "Ace" slumped in his car at a hotel in Lenasia, South of Johannesburg. Officials found members of the SAPS that had been alerted to the scene already conducting investigations and gathering forensic data after he was certified dead.

His last assignment for Kaizer Chiefs was with the Youth Development Under 15 Team at a league game that was played in Tshwane on Sunday 07th of May 2006. The team won the match by 5-0 against Arcadia at the Caledonian Stadium.

"Ace" joined Kaizer Chiefs in 1969 after being recruited from Mohlakeng Zebras in Randfontein to feature for the Kaizer 11. He rose in stature within the club and also played along Kaizer Motaung as they guided Kaizer Chiefs to unprecedented heights in South African football.

It was not surprising when he took his skills into the North American Soccer League where he played eleven seasons starting from 1973 with the Miami Toros and joining other teams in the process. In October 2003, "Ace" was inducted in the American Hall of Fame and honoured as one of the most skilful and talented players from Africa.

The legendary "Ace" will best be remembered for his unmatched brilliance in the field and his contribution towards the growth and development of Kaizer Chiefs Youth Programme. He will also be remembered for his contribution in the National Under 23 teams after South Africa was admitted into international sporting events.

According to Kaizer Motaung, the Managing Director of Kaizer Chiefs, "Ace" was like an enigma that mesmerized all supporters and opponents alike. His ability to turn the game with one moment of brilliance was incomparable to any football skill ever known to soccer administrators and players alike”. Kaizer Chiefs will surely miss his dedication to the Youth Development Programme and to the Senior Team as a whole.

We pour our condolences to the family and those that grew to know and love him as a relative and a sportsman.

Thebe Mohatle (Mr)

Communications Manager/PRO