FIFA President Sepp Blatter has sent his condolences to the South African Football Association (SAFA) following the passing away of nine players in a car accident in the Eastern Cape on Sunday, 7 July 2013.

All the players are from the Inkwanca Local Football Association (LFA) in the Chris Hani region. Five of the players were laid to rest over the last weekend in Queenstown while the remaining four will be buried this coming weekend. 

“I would like to express my deepest condolences on hearing of the tragic accident that claimed the lives of nine amateur players travelling back from a game in Queenstown last week. It is so sad that the players should lose their lives at such a young age and whilst taking part in the game they love, football,” read part of the statement from President Blatter to SAFA President Kirsten Nematandani.

“On behalf of FIFA and the worldwide football community, I wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the players’ families, friends and loved ones. We would hope that, in some way, these words of support may help bring a little bit of peace and solace in this time of sadness,” concluded the statement.

The four players who will be laid to rest on Saturday, 20 July are Xola Ngema, Welile Mbhuti, Mpumezo Ntamehlo and Thembinkosi Bushula.

Anele Ntenetyana, Mzwandile Kovi, Justice April and Sakhile Mjonto were buried last Saturday, 13 July, while Abongile Msweli was laid to rest on Sunday, 14 July.