Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Michael Nkambule has died at the age of 37 after suffering serious injuries in a car accident approximately two weeks earlier.
Nkambule died on Friday, 7 August 2026, following a prolonged fight to recover from severe spinal cord injuries sustained when his vehicle overturned.
Family spokesperson Siyabonga Moloi said Nkambule had been travelling alone from a football tournament in Polokwane to Johannesburg when the crash happened.
Emergency services took him to Far East Rand Hospital immediately after the accident. He was later transferred to Johannesburg General Hospital, where doctors performed an operation to treat the serious injuries to his spinal cord.
Following the procedure, Nkambule returned to Far East Rand Hospital for further recovery. He spent time in the intensive care unit, but his condition eventually deteriorated and he died on Friday afternoon.
The former Betway Premiership player was born in Etwatwa, Daveyton, and was considered one of South Africa’s most promising footballers during his teenage years.
His talent attracted interest from European clubs Manchester United and Chelsea before he moved to France to join the youth academy of RC Strasbourg.
Nkambule later returned to South Africa, where he played for SuperSport United and Black Leopards. His strongest association, however, was with boyhood club Kaizer Chiefs, for whom he wore the iconic number 10 shirt.
He was affectionately known as “Ace” and “Zidane”, reflecting the admiration he earned for his technical ability and style of play. Although he eventually retired from professional football, Nkambule remained closely connected to the sport.
He continued playing through Ditlhake Masters FC, representing the regional legends side and maintaining his involvement in football.
News of his death has prompted tributes from former team-mates, football media and supporters across South Africa. The country’s football community has also sent condolences to the Nkambule family.
Details of the memorial service and funeral are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
Nkambule’s death comes as a reminder of a career that began with major promise. His performances as a young player attracted attention beyond South Africa, while his spell with Kaizer Chiefs established him as a familiar figure among the club’s supporters.
He remained passionate about the game after his professional career ended, continuing to play in the legends circuit and to contribute to the football community through his involvement with Ditlhake Masters FC.
Supporters with memories of Nkambule have been invited to share their thoughts, while readers have also been encouraged to take part in The South African’s Winter Reader Survey, which offers a R5,000 prize.
