SOUTH AFRICA international Papi Khomane has died in a horrific car smash – that also claimed the lives of his mother and uncle.
The former defender, 48, won nine caps for Bafana Bafana.
Khomane played for Johannesburg club Jomo Cosmos and Soweto-based Orlando Pirates, captaining the latter side.
But he and his two relatives were killed on Saturday as they drove to a funeral at Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal province.
The cause of the tragic accident has not yet been revealed.
Khomane and his dad Yster had both played for Orlando, nicknamed the Buccaneers.
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He helped South Africa to a third-place finish at the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations.
The club said: "Orlando Pirates are saddened to learn of the passing away of former captain Papi Khomane.
"His transformation from a quiet individual into a formidable leader during games was nothing short of inspirational.
"During his nine years with us Papi made over 150 appearances, each time exemplifying what it meant to be a Buccaneer.
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"We cannot speak of Papi and Yster Khomane without honouring the remarkable woman behind their successes – Mrs Rita Khomane.
"Rita was the cornerstone of support for both her husband and her son."
Several Premier League stars were international team-mates of Khomane 23 years ago.
Leeds United legend Lucas Radebe was alongside him in defence along with ex-Bolton and Charlton ace Mark Fish.
Former Chelsea man Pierre Issa was also part of the squad, along with striker Shaun Bartlett and Manchester United icon Quinton Fortune.
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