Tendei Ndoro: Former Zimbabwean Striker Dies as Tributes Pour in
- A former Premier Soccer League forward has tragically passed away after a reported battle with illness
- The ex-international enjoyed stints with several clubs in South Africa’s top flight during his career
- News of his death has sparked an outpouring of tributes on social media, with fans recalling his memorable performances on the pitch
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Zimbabwean football has been thrown into mourning following the death of former Orlando Pirates striker Tendai Ndoro at the age of 40.
Ndoro made a name for himself in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) after moving to South Africa in 2012, when he joined Mpumalanga Black Aces on the back of an impressive COSAFA Cup campaign with Zimbabwe’s Warriors and local side Chicken Inn.
Source: Twitter
His goal-scoring prowess quickly caught the eye, earning him a high-profile switch to Orlando Pirates.
The forward later secured a move abroad with Saudi outfit Al-Faisaly, though his time there proved less successful.
He eventually returned to South Africa, where he turned out for Ajax Cape Town and Highlands Park, before a stint in Oman with Al-Orouba. Persistent injuries, however, forced him into early retirement.
In 2021, concerns over Ndoro’s health grew after a frail image of him circulated widely online, with reports suggesting he had lost his eyesight.
His passing marks the end of a career that saw him light up the PSL with his talent, leaving behind memories of a striker who once thrilled fans across the region.
What is the cause of Tendai Ndoro's death?
Ndoro passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025, after a long battle with illness.
He was reportedly found dead in his apartment in South Africa, with the Daily Sun revealing that he had been battling diabetes since 2021. His health struggles, including vision problems, forced him into early retirement from football in 2020.
Ndoro earned 14 caps for Zimbabwe’s national team, the Warriors, between 2013 and 2017, and was part of the squad that competed at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.
Source: Twitter
Celebrated as one of Zimbabwe’s most popular footballers of his generation, his passing has left a huge void in the country’s football community.
His death comes shortly after South Africa mourned rugby legends Dawie Snyman and former Springboks captain Des van Jaarsveldt.
News of Ndoro’s passing quickly went viral on social media, with football fans across the region paying heartfelt tributes to the late star.
Zimbabwe FA and Orlando Pirates mourn Tendai Ndoro
Taking to social media, the Zimbabwe FA shared a heartfelt message to mourn the passing of Ndoro.
A statement on their X account reads:
"ZIFA Mourns the Passing of Tendai Ndoro. The Zimbabwe Football Association is deeply saddened to learn of the untimely passing of former Warriors striker, Tendai Ndoro.
Ndoro was a gifted forward who proudly represented our nation, donning the Warriors jersey with distinction. His talent, commitment, and passion for the game inspired many, and his contributions to Zimbabwean football will forever be remembered.
On behalf of the ZIFA Executive Committee, the football family, and the entire nation, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Ndoro’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace."
A statement from Orlando Pirates also reads:
"Orlando Pirates Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former striker, Tendai Ndoro (2015–2017).
The club extend heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time."
Tendei's death comes four months after South African footballer Sinamandla Zondi tragically passed away after collapsing during the warm-up ahead of a second-tier match.
The 22-year-old defender was preparing for a league game against Milford FC when he suddenly fell ill.
Despite being rushed to hospital by ambulance due to the severity of his condition, Zondi was declared dead before reaching the medical facility.
Aaron Boupendza's death in China
YEN.com.gh earlier reported the sad demise of Gabonese star, Aaron Boupendza in China on April 16 this year.
The late attacker, who played against Ghana at the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon, reportedly fell from the 11th of his appartment in a devastating loss to both Gabon and African soccer.
Source: YEN.com.gh
