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Legendary striker Henry Khumalo passes away

ONE of South Africa's most deadly strikers, legendary Henry "Mthofi" Khumalo, has died, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government announced yesterday.

ONE of South Africa's most deadly strikers, legendary Henry "Mthofi" Khumalo, has died, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government announced yesterday.

Khumalo first burst onto the professional soccer scene at African Wanderers where he formed a deadly partnership with the late Moran "Samora" Khulu.

At that time, Khumalo and Khulu used to plot the downfall of giants like Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Moroka Swallows. Former Chiefs goalkeeper Peta "No Mistake" Bala'c, who is now based in England, was one short-stopper that the duo used to torment.

It came as no surprise when Khulu was later signed by Chiefs while Khumalo became a Buccaneer, where they went on to help their respective clubs excel in league and cup matches.

Jan "Malombo" Lechaba, a former Chiefs midfielder, said: "What a deadly striker he was. That man always had an appetite for goals. It is unfortunate Mthofi played when we were still banned because of apartheid. If he played today, he would have been one of the best strikers in the world."

Ex-Pirates captain Johannes "Yster" Khomane said: "Mthofi was such a perfectionist in everything he did, no wonder he was so accurate at to finishing."

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for arts, culture, sport and recreation Weziwe Thusi said: "I express sincere condolences to the bereaved family of our soccer legend Henry Khumalo who thrilled the fans of yesteryear with his dazzling skills."

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