Tendai Ndoro Passes Away at 40 – Orlando Pirates Lead Tributes
Orlando Pirates have led an outpouring of grief following the death of their former striker, Tendai “Fire” Ndoro. He passed away on Monday at the age of 40 after a prolonged illness.
Pirates Confirm the Tragic News
The Soweto giants confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement:
“Orlando Pirates are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former striker, Tendai Ndoro (2015–2017). The club extend heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Ndoro, who was affectionately nicknamed “Fire” for his explosive playing style, was found dead at his apartment in Sandton. The Zimbabwean international had been battling diabetes for years. He was recently hospitalised in Durban after developing a tumour under his armpit.
A Career That Lit Up South African Football
Ndoro’s passing has sent shockwaves through both South African and Zimbabwean football. Many are mourning a striker remembered for his sharp finishing and instinctive play.
His journey began in Zimbabwe, where he rose to prominence at Chicken Inn between 2011 and 2013. His prolific scoring quickly attracted South African interest, leading to a move to Mpumalanga Black Aces.
The peak of his career came with Orlando Pirates, where he played from 2015 to 2017. His most memorable season was the 2016/17 campaign. He scored 12 league goals and narrowly missed out on the Golden Boot to Cape Town City’s Lebogang Manyama.
Stats and Achievements
Across his South African career, Ndoro made 112 appearances in the Premiership, registering 36 goals and 12 assists. He also had notable spells at Ajax Cape Town and Highlands Park before leaving the top-flight in 2020.
Beyond South Africa, Ndoro featured for Botswana’s Nico United and Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly. Internationally, he represented Zimbabwe nine times. He was part of the Warriors squad at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.
Life Beyond Playing
Even in retirement, Ndoro’s love for the game endured. Earlier this month, reports suggested that Eswatini First Division outfit Stumbo XI were in talks with him to join as a mentor for their young players. Sadly, those plans never materialised.
Remembering ‘Fire’ Ndoro
Tendai Ndoro’s death is a profound loss for the football community. Known for his fiery passion and lethal finishing, he leaves behind a legacy of moments that inspired both fans and teammates. His career burned brightly. Though his life ended far too soon, his impact on African football will not be forgotten.
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