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Fans pay tribute to Benni

Cape Town - Tributes have poured in for Benni McCarthy from Sport24 readers after the Bafana legend announced that he has hung up his boots.

GALLERY: Benni McCarthy in pictures

McCarthy, South Africa's most successful player of the modern era, released a statement via his management company, confirming his retirement.

Here's what Sport24 readers had to say about Benni McCarthy's retirement:

"I know South African people, with the hatred we have, we will hold on to his weaknesses and his refusals to honour National call ups, which to me were for specific reasons that he did mention, but i still we ought to give this guy more respect and honour, for he has always made sure that the South African flag was always flying high." - Lubambalo Tsunguzi

"He will be remembered with his best goals, especially the goals he scored against Man United in the Champions League semifinal." - Jetro Simelane

"The most disappointing moment was when he was excluded from the 2010 FIFA World Cup Squad." - Pedro Mzileni

"Seeing him donning the black and white for Pirates and scoring the free kick that made us defend our league title is the best memory I have of him. Thank you! Thank you, King Benni." - Maanda Mathobo

"Haters will hate him, but Benni remains the best striker SA has ever produced!" - Fish Bhamjee Clemen

"Great footballer! From 7 Stars to winning the Champions League with. Porto, scoring South Africas first goal in a World Cup. He has blessed viewers with an abundance memories. Need i mention his 4 goals vs Namibia in AFCON. #LEGEND." - Ross Jordaan

"Benni did what most South African footballers dream of doing..." - Matthew Pendekana

"A true son of Africa - good luck for your future." - Felix Njela Kankhukwa

"Benni in the 18 area!" - Dhirshan Gobind

"He must groom young strikers, we really need his expertise. SAFA wake-up." - Rufus Sibanyone

"Well done Benni, wabantwana, you were great. You made us proud for being the first South African player to win the Champions League medal." - Kenneth Cesiko

"This was long overdue...but forever Benni in the 18 area!" - Rezaan Pietersen

"I Salute you, you made a big difference in our football fraternity. We thank you for your contribution." - Mondli Zizwe Khumalo

"Watching him play for Porto in the Uefa champions league final gave me goosebumps. Thank you for your contributions in making South Africans proud. Halagasha Benni!" - Char Ou



Benni McCarthy the greatest soccer player SA has produced. (Gallo Images)

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