Magesi Football Club joins the football fraternity as we mourn the passing of renowned sports presenter Phumlani Msibi.
Msibi, 57, passed away on Friday, 20 June 2025.
Dikwena Tša Meetse Media and Communications Officer Ms. Mmaphuti Mashamaite has paid a glowing tribute to the fallen giant, describing Msibi as an “outstanding professional.”
“I had the honour of working with him at SuperSport a couple of years ago. He was undoubtedly one of the most seasoned broadcasters,” commented Ms. Mashamaite to www.magesi.co.za.
“But what struck a chord with me is despite his stature, he always went out of his way to help those who were starting out. Great as he was, he was a humble, gentle giant. South African football is poorer without him.”
True to Ms. Mashamaite’s words, SuperSport TV, Mr. Msibi’s employer for years, has painted a picture of a man who indeed would be remembered for a long time.
“Born on 15 December 1967 in Durban, Mr. Msibi was a passionate and supremely talented storyteller, with a penchant for live football and boxing commentary and analysis.
“In his decades-long and storied broadcasting career, his iconic phrase, “Coach, thoughts please?” upped the intrigue for viewers in post-match interviews and became iconic in the football fraternity.”
Msibi started at SuperSport as a ring announcer with the late boxing promoter, Mr. Mzi Mnguni, in the late 1990s before becoming a seasoned boxing commentator, becoming the first to commentate in isiZulu and English on the sports broadcaster.
“Msibi soon embedded himself in the football sphere, becoming one of the faces and voices of football on SuperSport following the acquisition of the Premier Soccer League (PSL) broadcast rights in 2007,” continued SuperSport.
“This proved a pivotal point in his career, whereby Msibi grew his repertoire, immersing himself in all things football on SuperSport, whether live or on magazine programming. His clever use of language, whether isiZulu or English, endeared him to viewers across the continent, while his humility made his interviewees comfortable in front of the camera.”
Magesi FC extends its deepest condolences to the Msibi family during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
