Full Name: Lucas Valeriu Ntuba Moripe 
Nickname: Masterpieces, God of Football 
Date of Birth: 5 February 1950 
Date of Death: 19 November 2024  
Place of Birth: Soweto, Union of South Africa 
Profession: Professional Footballer (Retired), Football Administrator 
Clubs: Pretoria Callies, Caroline Hill FC (Hong Kong), Orlando Pirates 
Legacy Honor: Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium (Atteridgeville)

Early Life and Football Beginnings

Lucas Moripe was born on 5 February 1950 in Soweto, South Africa. Raised in a large family, he developed a passion for football from a young age and showed signs of brilliance early on.

Youth Career

Moripe began his football journey with ICL Birds, an amateur team in the Bophuthatswana Soccer League. His raw talent quickly caught the attention of Patrick Ntsoelengoe, who later helped shape his development as a star midfielder.

Club Career

⚽ Pretoria Callies (1971–1974)
Moripe turned professional with Pretoria Callies, where he became a household name. In 1973, he won the NPSL Player of the Year award, and fans nicknamed him Modimo Wa Bolo, “God of Football” due to his:
– Mesmerizing dribbling 
– Match-winning flair 
– Tactical brilliance

He was especially adored in Atteridgeville, where his talent inspired countless young players.

🌍 Caroline Hill FC (1974)
Moripe spent a brief stint in Hong Kong, representing Caroline Hill FC and further showcasing his flair internationally.

⚫ Orlando Pirates (1981)
He joined Orlando Pirates late in his career, but recurring knee injuries cut short his time with the Buccaneers. Despite the setbacks, he remained a beloved figure in South African football, admired for his humility and artistry on the pitch.

International Career Blocked by Apartheid

Due to South Africa’s international isolation during apartheid, Moripe was never given the chance to play for Bafana Bafana. Nevertheless, he is regarded as one of the greatest players who never represented the country internationally.

Post-Retirement and Community Involvement

After retiring, Lucas Moripe stayed active in football administration and community outreach, mentoring young players and remaining a respected elder in the sport.

In 2010, the Atteridgeville Super Stadium was renamed the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium — a fitting tribute to his impact on South African football.

Personal Life
Moripe fathered a child, William Mbatha, with Virginia Mbatha, a singer from Atteridgeville. The couple separated when William was seven.

Later in life, Moripe experienced significant health issues:
– Suffered a mild stroke 
– Long-term knee injury left him in a wheelchair

Despite his personal struggles, he continued to inspire and mentor others with dignity and strength.

Death and Legacy

Lucas Moripe passed away on 19 November 2024, aged 74. He is remembered not only for his football talent but for:
– Elevating Pretoria Callies to national fame 
– Inspiring generations of South African footballers 
– Representing pride and resilience under apartheid-era constraints

His legacy lives on through the stadium that bears his name and the memories of those who witnessed his magic on the field.

Summary Profile

Name: Lucas Valeriu Ntuba Moripe 
Born: 5 February 1950 – Soweto, South Africa 
Died: 19 November 2024 – Aged 74 
Clubs Played For:
– ICL Birds (Youth) 
– Pretoria Callies (1971–1974) 
– Caroline Hill FC (1974, Hong Kong) 
– Orlando Pirates (1981)

Achievements:

– NPSL Player of the Year – 1973 
– Nicknamed “God of Football” by fans 
– Lucas Moripe Stadium named in his honor