‘SA has lost a giant’: Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane on former teammate John Moeti

“I think the nation has lost a giant. And condolences to him and his wife, who I got to know better when he was still playing at Pirates.

“It’s sad to lose someone like him. It’s one of those things where you never know what’s going to happen tomorrow.”

Moeti's death was confirmed by his family and the South African Football Association.

A stocky central midfielder with a biting tackle, but also silkily skilful with an excellent eye for a pass, Moeti was among the classiest midfielders of his generation.

He would have played in South Africa’s first World Cup in France in 1998 but was injured on the eve of the tournament.

Moeti also played for Dynamos and SuperSport United. He had 29 caps for South Africa.