Lebogang Morula, the former Jomo Cosmos and Bafana Bafana midfielder, was laid to rest in an emotional ceremony at Mmakau Cemetery, North West, on Saturday, August 17. The 56-year-old’s life was celebrated by former footballers, including past teammates from Jomo Cosmos, who gathered to bid him a heartfelt farewell.
The funeral service, held at Ramogodi Hall in Mmakau, was filled with tributes from those who knew Morula well. Mourners remembered him as a loving and humble individual who deeply cared for others.
Nono Sekwele, Morula’s sister, expressed the family’s profound grief. “This is a hard and painful time for us,” she said. “God knows all. What happened to my brother is heartbreaking. He was fit and healthy. This pain is overwhelming.”
Former Jomo Cosmos captain Collen Tlemo spoke of Morula’s significant contributions to South African football. “He was our hero,” Tlemo said. “Lebogang was part of our first FIFA World Cup squad in 1998 in France. It was no small feat to make the national team back then, but he did it. He represented South Africa on the world stage—he was our ambassador.”
Tebogo Mophaleng, another former Cosmos player, also paid tribute to Morula’s leadership qualities. “We have lost a great man,” Mophaleng said. “But let’s not lose hope. We must continue his legacy. His spirit will always be with us.”
The funeral was a poignant reminder of Morula’s impact on and off the field, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him.
