Share

Ex-Bafana striker Masinga dies

Cape Town - Former Bafana Bafana striker Bennett Masinga has passed away after a short illness. He was 48.

Masinga, the cousin of former Bafana Bafana star Phil Masinga, represented Mamelodi Sundowns, Umtata Bush Bucks, Manning Rangers and Santos during his career.

'Bennito' also represented Bafana Bafana on five occasions between 1992 and 1993.

He made his debut alongside his cousin Phil in Bafana’s third match since re-admission to international football - a friendly against Cameroon on July 11, 1992.

Both cousins were on the scoresheet for Bafana at FNB Stadium in a 2-2 draw.

Bennett Masinga’s fifth and final match for Bafana was during the goalless draw against Mauritius on April 10, 1993.

Phil Masinga, 44, said his older cousin was an inspiration for him when he grew up.

I idolised him. Followed him around when I was a youngster. Carried his soccer boots for him just to see him play.

All I ever wanted was to be just as good at football as he was. He was no doubt a better player than me. #RIPBennito," he tweeted on Friday.

Friends, fans and family of Bennett Masinga are invited to share their memories and tributes, and to light a candle for him, on his profile at Remembered.co.za.


We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1272 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE