/ 10 May 2006

Soccer star’s death still a mystery

The cause of former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Pule Patrick ”Ace” Ntsoelengoe’s death is still unknown, Gauteng police said on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Captain Mbhazima Shiburi said post-mortem results on the former dribbling wizard’s body are not available.

Ntsoelengoe (54) was found dead by a Chiefs fan in his car at a hotel in Lenasia, southern Johannesburg, on Monday.

Shiburi said police received a phone call from a hotel staff member alerting them of Ntsoelengoe’s body. Foul play is not suspected at this stage.

Mbhekaphansi Njengesambane, as Ntsoelengoe was also known to the Chiefs fans, joined Amakhosi in 1969.

In 1973 he joined American side Miami Toros. He also played for a number of teams in the United States.

He was inducted to the American Hall of Fame and honoured as one of the most skilful and talented players from Africa in October 2003.

At the time of his death, Ntsoelengoe was involved in Chiefs’ youth-development programme.

A memorial service will be held at the Mogale City municipal hall in Krugersdorp on Thursday, and his funeral service will be held at the same venue on Sunday. — Sapa