Mohammed Allie BBC Sport, Cape Town

Manyathela 'lived for football'

Thousands of people attended an emotional memorial service in Johannesburg for Lesley "Slow Poison" Manyathela, the Orlando Pirates striker who was killed in a car crash on Saturday.

Many burst into tears when footage of the star striker sporting his customary wide smile was shown on the big screen at the Standard Bank arena.

His jerseys - number 22 at Pirates, 18 at Bafana Bafana and 19 with the Olympic team - were displayed at the podium which was adorned with wreaths.

The mourners were addressed by Bafana Bafana coach Ephraim Mashaba who recalled how he felt "paralysed" after receiving news of Manyathela's death.

"Let us help his family, friends and team mates at Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana to be strong," said a tearful Mashaba.

Pirates captain Papi Khomane described Manyathela as a man who lived for football.

Khomane said: "I'm privileged to be captain of the team for which Lesley played."

Former Pirates captain Mbulelo Mabizela returned from London where is due to sign with Premiership side Tottenham Hotspur, to be at the memorial service.

Other memorial services were held in Manyathela's home town of Musina in the Northern Province, Polokwane, Durban and Port Elizabeth.