Former Bafana Bafana head coach Clive Barker has passed away at the age of 78. Barker, renowned for leading South Africa to victory in the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996, had been battling Lewy Body Dementia.
The family released a statement confirming the sad news, expressing their gratitude to the medical professionals who had cared for Barker during his six-month battle with Lewy Body Dementia.
The statement also highlighted Barker’s admission to a Durban hospital earlier this year for treatment of an aneurysm affecting blood flow from his heart.
Remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather, Barker’s impact on South African football will forever be cherished.
His role in uniting the nation during the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations will remain a significant milestone in his career. The family requested privacy during this difficult time and promised to announce details of the memorial service soon.
Throughout his remarkable 42-year coaching career, Barker mentored various teams including AmaZulu, Manning Rangers, Durban City, Durban Bush Bucks, Santos Cape Town, Wits and Maritzburg United, where he concluded his coaching journey in 2016.
Notably, Barker guided Durban City to consecutive league titles in 1982 and 1983, as well as leading Durban Bush Bucks to victory in 1985.
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