‘Continental’ Leremi…Never Forgotten!
Posted: 26 May 2020
The Orlando Pirates Football Academy once produced a footballer in the form of Gift Leremi, probably one of the most talented midfielders this country has ever seen or had. Leremi, as good as he was, was nick named “Continental” to some or “Vum Vum” to others.
Born in Soweto, Leremi was a precocious talent and joined the famous Orlando Pirates Apprenticeship at nine and was quickly promoted to the Academy / Developmental squad of the club. The club’s Head of Academy, Augusto Palacious, remembers the skinny but super-talented Leremi, saying;
“Skilful…(Long pause), best player I ever coached, from 13 years old, talent visible, make soccer ball talk to him. What he does (did) with soccer ball fantastic for his age, real and rare talent. For me, was best player (Pirates) Academy ever have, great player’, concluded an emotional Palacious.
“Vum Vum” was a player blessed with pure trickery, pace and power on his legs, could shoot it with both legs, scored almost at will, and could hit long range shots at goal with minimum effort. Leremi sadly passed on in a car crash shortly after joining reigning ABSA Premiership Champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Gone…But Never Forgotten Gift Mpho ‘Continental’ Leremi!
Article By;
Selebalo Karabo Phasha.
The best ntwana… I remember i shed a tear when heard of the news of his passing, not forgetting the devastation i suffered upon his departure from the Sea Robbers.
What a talent 🙌
Ours is to remain writing these stories and remember the exceptional players this country has ever produced! Thank You for your participation!