The Hammanskraal community in Tshwane is in mourning following the tragic deaths of two young amateur soccer players, Fifi and Rammile, who were killed in a roadside accident on Wednesday, 18 June. The two friends were struck by a car while walking home after watching their favourite team, Manchester City, defeat Wydad Casablanca in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Kgothatso Masoma (21), known to his friends as Fifi, played for Junior Kings FC, while Karabo Rammile (19) was a member of Hammanskraal Sports Academy FC. Their lives were cut short on their way back from a friend's house, leaving their families and the local football community devastated.
Fifi's uncle, Levy Masoma, expressed the family's profound sorrow. "Fifi's death has saddened the family," he said. "Even now, we don't believe he is no more." He revealed that Fifi passed away on Thursday, 19 June, at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Ga-Rankuwa. "My nephew loved soccer more than anything," Levy added. "We are in great pain. The driver was drunk." Levy also mentioned that Fifi harboured dreams of one day playing for Mamelodi Sundowns.
Karabo's uncle, Nyembezi Msiza (54), described his nephew's passing as deeply traumatic. "The way he died and seeing him on the scene is traumatic," he said. "The picture will take time to disappear. It's a violent death." He advised caution when driving in the townships and described Karabo as a grounded and cool young man. "We trust those entrusted with ensuring the culprits are brought to book," he added. "For now, our priority is to heal."
Lucas Sithole, coach of Junior Kings FC, spoke highly of Fifi's character and potential. "He was humble, passionate, and disciplined on and off the field," Sithole said. "A lot was expected from him."
Fifi's former classmate, Bontle Ratema (21), shared her fond memories of her friend. "He was a great athlete, a soccer star, and excelled in his favourite subjects," she said. "He was a joker who brought joy to our trio. We shared an emotional, physically, and academical bond. We’re celebrating the life of my best brother, a dear friend who left an indelible mark in our lives." Bontle vowed to keep his legacy alive, allowing his memory to inspire kindness, compassion, and purpose in her life.
Another friend, Wandile Baris, remembered Fifi and Karabo's dedication to the sport. "They didn’t enjoy partying but loved playing soccer," he remarked.
Gauteng police spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident. "A case of driving while under the influence of alcohol and culpable homicide has been opened at Temba Police Station, and the suspect was arrested," Masondo said.
The two young soccer players were laid to rest in Hammanskraal on Saturday, 28 June. The community has come together to support the grieving families and remember the lives of these promising young athletes, whose dreams were tragically cut short.
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