BULAWAYO’S Nketa suburb is steeped in sorrow following the passing of former Warriors forward Tendai Ndoro, who died in South Africa on Monday.
Nicknamed “Fire” for his goal-scoring prowess, Ndoro became a fan favourite at South African giants Orlando Pirates, delivering decisive goals and unforgettable performances.
A larger-than-life figure, he represented Zimbabwe on 14 occasions between 2013 and 2017, scoring five goals, and enjoyed club stints with Orlando Pirates, Ajax Cape Town, Highlands Park in South Africa, as well as Al-Faisaly in Saudi Arabia and Al-Orouba in Oman.
Back in Nketa, where he grew up and began his career with Chicken Inn, Ndoro was remembered for his generosity and community spirit.
“We used to play with him, and he never forgot us, even when he was playing for Orlando Pirates. He would donate soccer balls to the community. We are at a loss,” a community member said.
“Tendai loved people. We used to spend time with him here, and as a community, we are still shellshocked.
“He came from this suburb. We knew him, and he never forgot his footprints,” another community member stated.
Ndoro made his name at Chicken Inn, where his goal-scoring exploits made him a household name between 2011 and 2013.
“Ndoro is one of our exports. He represented us well, and when we heard the news, we tried to downplay it, thinking it was another social media lie, but we are devastated. We say rest in peace, King,” Chicken Inn media officer, Nkululeko Nkala said.
The Zimbabwe Football Association, former players, and his previous clubs have also mourned the former Warriors forward.
During his tenure with Orlando Pirates from 2015 to 2017, Ndoro scored an impressive 25 goals in 48 league matches.
His performances left a lasting impact on the club’s fans, who took to social media to express their condolences.
