South Africa bade farewell to one of its greatest football legends today as Lucas “Masterpieces” Moripe was laid to rest in a fitting tribute at his namesake venue in Atteridgeville, Pretoria West. Moripe, who passed away on 19 November at the age of 74 after a brief illness, was a revered figure in South African football. Known affectionately as “Modimo wa Bolo” (Football God), his passing has left a profound void in the hearts of football fans across the country. His funeral, attended by close family, friends, and dignitaries, was a celebration of the life and legacy of a man whose talent transcended borders and generations.
Though President Cyril Ramaphosa could not attend in person, Moripe was honoured with a special provincial official funeral, acknowledging his significant contributions to South African football. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi was among the speakers who paid tribute to the fallen legend, praising Moripe’s indelible impact on the sport and the country as a whole. “Considered one of South Africa’s football legends, Mr Moripe leaves behind a lasting and powerful legacy that will never be forgotten,” Lesufi remarked, capturing the deep respect felt by the nation for the maestro. The funeral was attended by a host of sporting figures, including Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie, CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, and former Kaizer Chiefs star Jan “Malombo” Lechaba, further underlining the widespread reverence for Moripe.
The emotional ceremony reflected Moripe’s lasting influence on the game, both in South Africa and internationally. Minister Chiloane paid a heartfelt tribute, emphasizing how Moripe’s extraordinary skill, epitomized by his signature dribbling style and mesmerizing body swerve, elevated the sport to an art form. “Today, we honour Lucas ‘Masterpieces’ Moripe, a legend who turned football into art with his signature move. His journey from township streets to international acclaim reminds us all that greatness is born from perseverance and passion,” Chiloane said, urging young players to look up to Moripe as a source of inspiration. The message resonated deeply, reminding all that Masterpieces’ rise from humble beginnings to football stardom was a testament to his dedication and love for the game.
Moripe’s career spanned several decades, and he left an indelible mark on the clubs he played for, including Orlando Pirates and Pretoria Bantu Callies. He was a symbol of skill and elegance, whose ability to make the ball dance at his feet brought joy to countless fans. His contributions to South African football were more than just technical; they were cultural, as he helped raise the profile of the sport and unite a country through its love for football. At the funeral, friends and colleagues shared anecdotes of Moripe’s humility, warmth, and his unrelenting commitment to making the game better for future generations.
As the service concluded, Moripe was laid to rest at the Lotus Cemetery in Tshwane, marking the end of an era for South African football. Yet, his legacy lives on, immortalized in the hearts of fans and through the countless players who continue to be inspired by his artistry on the field. His passing marks the end of a chapter in South Africa’s football history, but the lessons he imparted—of hard work, passion, and the pursuit of excellence—will continue to shape the future of the game.
In a poignant turn of events, Moripe’s son, William Mbatha, known as the ‘King of Bling’ or ‘Mashobane’, was unable to attend his father’s funeral. Mbatha, currently serving a 123-year sentence for multiple serious offenses, including robbery, kidnapping, and impersonating a police officer, was denied permission to attend due to his status as a high-risk prisoner. This added a layer of sadness to an already emotional day, as a son’s grief was constrained by the circumstances of his imprisonment. Nevertheless, the family’s mourning continued as they paid their final respects to a football icon whose legacy will forever be cherished by all who loved the game.
