In a somber week for the football world, the sport has lost two of its beloved figures—legendary Dutch coach Johan Neeskens and former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Alton Meiring.
Their passing has left a void in the hearts of fans and the football community alike.
Johan Neeskens: Dutch Football Icon Passes Away at 73
News broke out on Monday afternoon when Ajax Amsterdam, the former club of Johan Neeskens, announced his passing.
The Dutch football icon, who had a glittering playing career with FC Barcelona and later became a renowned coach, passed away at the age of 73 in the Netherlands.
Ajax shared their grief in a heartfelt statement:
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Johan Neeskens. Our thoughts are with his family at this time,” the club expressed, concluding with, “Rest in peace, Ajax legend.”
Neeskens’ coaching career included a memorable stint with Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa, where he led the team between July 2011 and July 2012.
During his tenure, he managed 50 games, securing 18 wins, 16 losses, and 16 draws.
Following his time with Sundowns, Neeskens moved on to coach Turkish giants Galatasaray.
His legacy as a player and coach remains intact, and his loss is deeply felt across the global football community.
Mamelodi Sundowns Mourn the Loss of Alton Meiring
In another blow to the Sundowns family, the club has confirmed the passing of former striker Alton Meiring.
Known for his contributions to South African football, Meiring’s passing was met with heartfelt condolences from the Mamelodi Sundowns community.
In an emotional tribute, the club shared,
“The Chairman and the Motsepe Family, the Board of Directors, Technical Team, Players, Management, and the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of former Mamelodi Sundowns striker, Alton Meiring.”
Meiring had an illustrious career, playing for several top-tier South African clubs, including AmaZulu, Jomo Cosmos, Hellenic, Golden Arrows, and Moroka Swallows.
His impact on the game was significant, and the Sundowns community is united in their grief, offering prayers and support to his family during this difficult time.
PSL Honors Alton Meiring with Moments of Silence
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) also shared in the grief, issuing a statement to honor the late Alton Meiring.
“The PSL is deeply saddened by the passing of South African football legend, Alton Meiring,” the league said.
The league extended condolences to the Meiring family, his former clubs, and the broader football community.
To honor his memory, a moment of silence will be observed at the upcoming MTN8, Motsepe Foundation Championship, and DStv Diski Challenge fixtures.
Reflecting on a Legacy
As the football world mourns the loss of both Johan Neeskens and Alton Meiring, their contributions to the sport will forever be remembered.
From Neeskens’ dazzling skills on the pitch to Meiring’s dedication to South African football, these two icons leave behind legacies that will continue to inspire future generations.
Rest in peace, Johan Neeskens and Alton Meiring.
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