The Hammanskraal community gathered in grief and remembrance as 21-year-old soccer player Kgothatso ‘Fifi’ Masoma was laid to rest on Saturday, 28 June 2025, at Kanana Cemetery. The young footballer, who played for Junior Kings FC, tragically lost his life in a fatal accident that has shaken the entire community.
Fifi and his friend, 19-year-old Karabo Rammile, who played for Hammanskraal Sports Academy FC, were struck and killed by a vehicle on Wednesday, 18 June, while returning from watching a FIFA Club World Cup match between Manchester City and Wydad Casablanca, which was being held in the United States.
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At his funeral service held at Temba Methodist Church, Fifi was remembered as a humble, disciplined, and exceptionally talented player who had become a beacon of hope for many aspiring athletes in the township. Friends, family, teammates, and members of the local church came together to celebrate his short but impactful life.
Levy Masoma, Fifi’s uncle, shared heartfelt memories and expressed deep sorrow at the loss. “We are still struggling to believe he is gone. He was so full of life. I’ll miss our moments going to watch matches. He would tell me he was going to score and dedicate the goal to me—and he always did.” Levy also demanded justice, stating, “The man who killed him must rot in jail. He took away innocent lives and bright futures.”
Fifi’s cousin, 19-year-old Rebone Masoma, spoke of the family’s anguish. “We are heartbroken. We never expected this. Fifi was bubbly, kind, and always respectful.”
Friends and teammates also shared fond memories of Fifi, describing his love for football and his aversion to distractions that often derail young people. Wandile Baris, a 19-year-old teammate, thanked the community for their support and promised to carry Fifi’s dream forward. “He was our motivator. He wanted us to succeed. I’ll make sure we fight for promotion to the Tshwane Regional League—just like he wanted.”
Keoratile Phiri (22), another close friend, fondly recalled giving Fifi the nickname “Ronaldo” due to his impressive skills on the field. “He was a top player and a loyal friend. I’ll always love and miss him. May he rest in peace.”
Fifi was also an active member of the Apostolic Jerusalem Church in Sabbath. Church member Lucky Letsoalo paid tribute to his spiritual life: “We are devastated. He was a good-standing member and left a gap in our church family.”
Karabo Rammile, Fifi’s friend and fellow player, was also buried in Hammanskraal on the same day. Their deaths have left a deep void in the local football and youth community.
Gauteng police confirmed that the suspect involved in the accident was arrested for driving under the influence and faces charges of culpable homicide. The case is being handled by Temba Police Station.
As Hammanskraal mourns the loss of two promising stars, the community remains united in seeking justice and honouring the legacies of Kgothatso ‘Fifi’ Masoma and Karabo Rammile.
