Koloba, affectionately known as “ChillyBoy” in football circles, steered for the Glamour Boys in the mid '90s and also featured for the likes of now defunct Vaal Professionals, QwaQwa Stars (now Free State Stars) and Cape Town Spurs.

“Fortune, I remember him very well...a nice guy, always joking around with other players. He and Doctor (Khumalo) were big jokers in the team. As a player he was very committed to his job. He was very good in the air and scored most of his goals with his head.”

“I send heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and former teammates,” said the Mook,i who could not hide his shock following the news from kaizerchiefs.com on Tuesday morning.

Funeral arrangements for the former star will be communicated in due course.

Gauteng mourns loss of soccer genius

Gauteng’s MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile has learnt with shock the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s soccer legend Fortune Koloba.

“It is indeed a sad loss, Koloba was an extraordinary soccer player whose name and achievements will not be forgotten. We extend our most sincere condolences to his family, friends, fans and the soccer community. May his soul rest in peace,” said MEC Maile

“His achievements as a soccer player had made him an asset and a celebrated football figure not only in Gauteng but also in the whole of South Africa. His passing has left the country in mourning” added Maile.