FIFA pays tribute to Madigage

Johannesburg - FIFA president Sepp Blatter has expressed the footballing body's condolences for the death of South Africa assistant coach Thomas Madigage.

The 41-year-old was killed in an car accident between Polokwane and Burgersfort in the twilight hours of Thursday night.

He was travelling alone in his car on the R37 when a donkey crossed into the road, forcing the former SuperSport United number-two into the fatal collision.

Tributes have been pouring in from far and wide for Madigage, who was respected for his achievements as both a player and as a coach.

"It was with great sadness that we learnt of the tragic passing of Thomas Madigage," Blatter wrote in an official FIFA statement.

"On behalf of FIFA and the worldwide family of football, I wish to extend our deepest condolences to you, to your national team, to his club SuperSport United and, most importantly, to his family, friends and loved ones.

"We would hope that in some way, our words of support may help bring a little bit of peace and solace in this time of sadness."