JOHANNESBURG– The regional football community is mourning the death of former Orlando Pirates and Zimbabwe international striker Tendai Ndoro, who passed away in South Africa this week at the age of 40.
Ndoro, who was widely known by his nickname Fire for his sharp finishing and flair on the field, was reportedly found dead in his apartment after battling illness for several years. Former Zimbabwe international Edelbert Dinha confirmed the news at the scene, saying Ndoro may have been gone for three days before his body was discovered.
Family members and fellow football greats, including Peter Ndlovu, rushed to the apartment to comfort relatives and gather details surrounding his passing.
Born in Bulawayo, Ndoro rose to prominence at Chicken Inn in the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League before moving to South Africa, where he played for Mpumalanga Black Aces and later joined Soweto giants Orlando Pirates in 2015. His goal-scoring form for the Buccaneers made him a household name, earning him opportunities abroad with Saudi Arabian club Al-Faisaly, before returning to play for Ajax Cape Town and Highlands Park.
Ndoro also represented Zimbabwe’s Warriors between 2013 and 2017, including a stint at the Africa Cup of Nations.
In his later years, the striker faced serious health challenges, including temporary blindness and a decline in his physical condition. Despite undergoing surgery earlier this year and speaking of recovery, his health struggles continued until his death.
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