The South African football fraternity is shocked by the news of the tragic passing of former Mamelodi Sundowns reserve team player Lesiba Ramabula.

The 21-year-old, who previously played for the Brazilians reserve team, was walking with a friend in a park in Seshego Zone 1 just outside Polokwane in Limpopo when he was struck by lightning on Tuesday.

According to reports, Ramabula and his friend were celebrating his success after signing a contract with Sundowns’ development team when the rain started coming down on them when he got struck by lighting.

The young footballer passed away on his way to the hospital and was certified dead on arrival, while his friend survived with several injuries.

Messages of support have been pouring in for the late footballer, who lost his life at 21, including the MEC for the Department of Social Development in Limpopo, Nkakareng Rakgoale.

“After learning about this tragic incident, we immediately activated a team of social workers who will reach out to the family and start providing psycho-social support services.

“We know that the family is obviously going through a lot, as they lost a young man who is said to be a promising soccer star. Our social workers will also extend the same service to the survivor and other affected parties. We express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and wishing his friend a speedy recovery.” said Rakgoale.

Meanwhile, the ANC Youth League released this statement: “The ANCYL Ward 13 conveys its heartfelt condolences to the Ramabula family. We with them, together with friends, colleagues and fans strength as they navigate through this difficult time.”