Former Orlando Pirates Striker Tendai Ndoro Found Dead in Sandton
Date: August 17, 2025
Former Orlando Pirates Striker Tendai Ndoro Found Dead in Sandton
The South African and Zimbabwean football community is in mourning following the tragic passing of Tendai Ndoro, the former Orlando Pirates and Ajax Cape Town striker. Ndoro, affectionately known as “Fire”, was found dead in his apartment in Sandton, Johannesburg, at the age of 40.
Orlando Pirates Confirm the News
The Soweto giants confirmed the heartbreaking news in an official statement on Monday.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former striker, Tendai Ndoro (2015–2017). The club extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Ndoro’s death comes as a shock, as the striker was still widely respected in the football fraternity for his achievements both at club and national level.
A Career of Goals and Passion
Ndoro’s professional journey began in Zimbabwe, where he lit up the Premier Soccer League with Chicken Inn FC between 2011 and 2013. His sharp finishing soon earned him a move to Mpumalanga Black Aces in South Africa in 2013.
From there, Ndoro’s career reached its peak when Orlando Pirates signed him in 2015. He featured for the Buccaneers for three seasons, scoring vital goals and quickly becoming a fan favorite.
- 2016/17 PSL Golden Boot Race: Ndoro netted 12 goals, narrowly missing the award to Lebogang Manyama (13 goals, Cape Town City FC).
- He also had stints with Ajax Cape Town, Highlands Park, Al-Faisaly (Saudi Arabia), and Al-Orouba (Oman).
Nicknamed Fire, Ndoro’s striking prowess made him one of the most feared forwards during his peak years.
International Career with Zimbabwe
Ndoro proudly represented the Zimbabwe Warriors between 2013 and 2017. He was part of the squad that competed at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Gabon.
He also played key roles in World Cup qualifiers and AFCON qualifiers, making him a vital figure in Zimbabwe’s frontline during that era.
The Bigger Picture – A Life Cut Short
At just 40 years old, Ndoro’s sudden passing leaves behind a legacy of goals, passion, and unforgettable memories on the pitch.
His journey across Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana, Saudi Arabia, and Oman showcased his determination to succeed at every level of the game.
The football world, including Orlando Pirates, Ajax Cape Town, and Highlands Park, has poured in tributes. Fans across Zimbabwe and South Africa have taken to social media to share their grief and celebrate his life.
Tributes Pour In
- Orlando Pirates: “A true goal scorer and a servant of the badge. Rest in Peace, Fire.”
- Ajax Cape Town (now Cape Town Spurs): “Gone too soon. Thank you for your contribution to South African football.”
- Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA): “A Warrior on and off the pitch. Tendai Ndoro will always be remembered.”
