AFCON 2015 fixture switched over slain South African goalkeeper

South Africa Football Association on Thursday announced that the AFCON 2015 qualifier between South Africa and Sudan on November 15 has been moved.

The match would be played in Durban instead of Nelspruit as a tribute to Bafana Bafana goalkeeper and captain, Senzo Meyiwa, who was shot dead on Sunday.

The Confederation of African Football has granted permission for the switch of venue.

“We felt as an Association it was proper and fitting that this match be played in Durban to honour our fallen hero since he hailed from this part of the world,” said SAFA President, Dr. Danny Jordaan.

“The team will visit the Meyiwa family and the graveyard. This will give the team the opportunity for closure.”

Meyiwa was born and raised in Umlazi outside Durban.

“We believe it will be a perfect send-off for Meyiwa after the heroics of the player helped the national team find itself in such a good position,” Jordaan added.

South Africa are top of Group A with eight points after four matches and have not conceded in all those matches with Meyiwa in goals and captaining the team.

Congo is second with seven points followed by Nigeria on four while Sudan is bottom of the table with three points.

Meyiwa will be buried in Umlazi on Saturday and the first Soweto Derby of the season between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, also scheduled for Saturday, has been postponed out of respect.

PANA/NAN.