Clive Barker: Legendary AFCON Winning Bafana Bafana Manager Passes Away at 78

• Clive Barker passed away at the age of 78 after a battle with Lewy Body Dementia
• Former Bafana Bafana manager Barker led the side to African Cup of Nations glory in 1996
• Barker was a much-loved figure in local football who will go down as a legend of the game

Former Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker has passed away.

The legendary former national coach passed away on the morning of Saturday, June 10, at the age of 78.

His family confirmed the tragic news via a statement, thanking the medical professionals who took care of him recently, News24 confirmed.

"It is with profound sadness that the family of former Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker announce his passing on Saturday, 10 June, after a brave battle with Lewy Body Dementia (LBD)," their statement read.

"We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the medical professionals who cared for Clive over the past six months. He fought a brave battle, and we are relieved he is now at peace,” the statement continued.

A list of Muslim footballers who converted to Christianity

Football

Known for leading Bafana to Africa Cup of Nations glory in 1996, Barker was a much-loved figure in the country. He also achieved success with numerous clubs in South African football and was known for his helping youngster learn about the beautiful game.

Barker’s battle with LBD

As noted by IOL, Barker was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) in March. LBD is a type of dementia that leads to a decline in thinking, reasoning and independent function. Last year Barker was in ICU.

Memorial service for Barker

His family thanked everyone for the tributes that have since poured in and confirmed that they would release details at a later stage for when his memorial service will be held.

Clive Barker’s health is worsening

The health of legendary former Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker is unfortunately worsening.

The Dog, as the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations winner is affectionally known, has been in and out of the hospital in recent years, Sports Brief previously reported.

The 78-year-old Barker was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, which affects a person's thinking, reasoning and processing of information.