He was admitted to a Johannesburg hospital over the weekend after what initially looked like a minor illness but passed on Tuesday evening.
A Zambian International, Dennis ‘Tshisa Mpama’ Lota played over 100 games for Orlando Pirates between 1998 and 2002 and also had spells at a number of other South African clubs including Moroka Swallows, Mpumalanga Black Aces, Witbank Aces, FC AK, Amazulu and Dangerous Darkies.
He was last seen in their mid week match against Kaizer Chiefs which Swallows lost to Chiefs by two goals.
Distraught Birds coach Zeca Marques said he lost a team-player and very dedicated person who enjoyed what he was doing.
”I’m not going to replace anyone as yet in his post,” he was quoted.
He was 40 years old.
Various sporting fans and soccer clubs continued sending messages of condolences to the family, friends and to the club.
