Full Name: Lucas Valeriu Ntuba Radebe
Date of Birth: 12 April 1969
Place of Birth: Diepkloof, Soweto, South Africa
Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
Position: Centre Back
Nicknames: “Rhoo”, “The Chief”
Clubs: Kaizer Chiefs, Leeds United
National Team: South Africa (Bafana Bafana)
Notable Honors: FIFA Fair Play Award (2000), Order of Ikhamanga (Silver, 2005)
Early Life and Rise in South African Football
Lucas Radebe was born in Diepkloof, Soweto, as one of 11 children. At age 15, his parents sent him to Bophuthatswana to escape the escalating violence in Soweto. There, he attended Ngotwane High School and played for ICL Birds, initially as a goalkeeper before transitioning to midfield and eventually settling as a central defender.
Lucas Radebe hanging out with a friend in Diepkloof:
In 1989, Radebe was recruited by Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa’s premier football clubs. He captained the team and won multiple domestic titles, including the National Soccer League in 1991 and 1992.
Leeds United – From Unknown to Club Legend
In 1994, Radebe and fellow South African Philemon Masinga transferred to Leeds United for £250,000. Initially included to help Masinga acclimate, Radebe soon proved his worth. Despite early challenges, including injuries and limited playtime, he became a fan favorite and was appointed club captain in the 1998–99 season.
Under his leadership, Leeds United achieved notable successes:
– 1998–99: Finished 4th in the Premier League, qualifying for the UEFA Cup.
– 1999–2000: Finished 3rd, securing a spot in the UEFA Champions League.
– 2000–01: Reached the Champions League semi-finals.
Radebe made 256 appearances for Leeds United, earning admiration for his leadership and sportsmanship. He turned down offers from top clubs like Manchester United, AC Milan, and AS Roma, choosing loyalty over lucrative moves.
International Career – Captain of Bafana Bafana
Radebe debuted for the South African national team in 1992, shortly after the end of apartheid. He earned 70 caps and scored 2 goals, captaining the team in:
– 1996 African Cup of Nations – Champions
– 1998 FIFA World Cup
– 2002 FIFA World Cup
His leadership during South Africa’s return to international football was pivotal. Nelson Mandela once referred to him as “my hero,” highlighting his impact beyond the pitch.
Personal Life and Challenges
In 1991, Radebe survived a shooting incident while driving with his brother. The bullet passed through his back and thigh, but he recovered fully. The motive remains unclear, though it’s speculated to be linked to football politics.
He faced personal tragedies, including the death of his first wife, Feziwe, from cancer in 2008, and a subsequent heart scare later that year. Radebe remarried in 2015.
Post-Retirement and Legacy
After retiring in 2005, Radebe remained active in football and philanthropy:
– 2000: Received the FIFA Fair Play Award for combating racism and promoting youth development.
– 2005: Awarded the Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) for his contributions to sport.
– 2010: Honored with the PFA Merit Award.
– Served as an ambassador for FIFA and SOS Children’s Villages.
– Played a role in South Africa’s successful bid to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
The British band Kaiser Chiefs named themselves after Radebe’s former club, reflecting his influence in both sports and culture.
Summary Profile
Name: Lucas Valeriu Ntuba Radebe
Born: 12 April 1969, Diepkloof, Soweto, South Africa
Height: 1.80 m
Position: Centre Back
Clubs:
– Kaizer Chiefs (1989–1994): 113 appearances, 5 goals
– Leeds United (1994–2005): 256 appearances, 3 goals
National Team:
– South Africa (1992–2003): 70 caps, 2 goals
Honors:
– African Cup of Nations Winner: 1996
– FIFA Fair Play Award: 2000
– Order of Ikhamanga (Silver): 2005
– PFA Merit Award: 2010
