Madiba inspiration behind SA's 2010 bid

Nelson Mandela holds the World Cup when South Africa hosted the tournament in 2010. Image: Nedbank Sport

"The association, on behalf of the football community in the country, wants to send its most heartfelt condolences to the family of Madiba.

"The football community will fondly remember everything that is good about this proud hero of our struggle against everything that divided this nation," he said.

In paying tribute to the 95-year-old former statesman, Jordaan said Madiba was responsible for lifting the spirits of the football nation - from the talks to unite the association, to victory at the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations.

According to Jordaan, Madiba was the catalyst in South Africa's bid for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

"While we had been watching Madiba's deteriorating health over the last year, we are all still shocked by his passing, which will always remain untimely as our nation still has much to achieve.

"However, his encouragement to our players on the field of play will forever be etched in our collective memories.

"We call on the entire football community of our nation to observe a moment of silence before every match they play in honour of this hero, who inspired our nation to achieve in our sport and to work to emulate his example," he said.