The South African football community was mourning on Tuesday following the sudden death of Richards Bay Premier Soccer League (PSL) star Siphamandla Mtolo.
Mtolo's club confirmed that he had died suddenly and tragically after collapsing during a training session earlier in the day.
The PSL, meanwhile, confirmed that a moment of silence would be observed at all upcoming Nedbank Cup and Diski Challenge fixtures this week.
The league said it was "deeply saddened" by the news as tributes poured in from all corners of South African football.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) also issued a statement on Tuesday.
"We as the South African Football Association would like to convey our sincerest condolences, deepest sympathy and heartfelt sorrow to his family, friends and the club during this difficult time," the organisation said on its website.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family and Richards Bay FC following the tragic passing of Siphamandla Mtolo," Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs said on their social media.
"May his soul rest in peace."
There were no further details from Richards Bay by Tuesday night, though News24 understands that club management and the players met on Tuesday night.
The PSL is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Richards Bay Football Club midfielder, Siphamandla Mtolo??? ??.
— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) March 7, 2023
A moment of silence will be observed in his honour at this week’s Nedbank Cup and DStv Diski Challenge fixtures.
May his soul repose peacefully. https://t.co/oFLpEpwKzC
Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family and Richards Bay FC following the tragic passing of Siphamandla Mtolo.
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) March 7, 2023
May his soul rest in peace.#Amakhosi4Lifepic.twitter.com/zD51a6SouM
Lamontville Golden Arrows send their condolences to Siphamandla Mtolo's family, as well as Richards Bay FC, on the news of his passing.
— Lamontville Golden Arrows FC (@goldenarrowsfc1) March 7, 2023
Wishing you peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow. #SthendeWay pic.twitter.com/non3YbpbWe
We are deeply saddened by the news that Richards Bay defender Siphamandla Mtolo has passed away.
— Cape Town City FC (@CapeTownCityFC) March 7, 2023
Our thoughts and condolences are with Siphamandla's friends and family during this time ????? pic.twitter.com/IZr8cZCqR6
We are saddened to hear about the tragic passing of Siphamandla Mtolo of Richards Bay FC
— Baroka Football Club (@Baroka_FC) March 7, 2023
Our condolences and prayers to the Mtolo family, Richards Bay FC and all football fans around the world #lennakemoroka#barokafire#Reabowapic.twitter.com/Yo01euc28O
We are saddened to hear about the passing of Siphamandla "Spepe" Mtolo. ???
— SuperSport United FC (@SuperSportFC) March 7, 2023
Our deepest condolences to the Mtolo family and @RichardsBayFC_. May his soul rest in peace. ?? pic.twitter.com/hoTr7O2EEM
??? Rest in Peace Siphamandla "Spepe" Mtolo ???@MaritzburgUtd has learnt with sadness the sudden passing of @RichardsBayFC_ s Captain Siphamandla Mtolo.
— Maritzburg United FC (@MaritzburgUtd) March 7, 2023
We would like to express our deepest condolences to Natal Rich Boyz, the family and friends of Dlangamandla ???#WeAreUnited pic.twitter.com/kNBf0dTlWT