Fake news
Benni McCarthy dismisses reports about his alleged death
Bafana Bafana legend, Benni McCarthy, was reported by a dubious website to have committed suicide in London.
On Wednesday, Benni McCarthy, South Africa’s highest goal-scorer, confirmed that he is alive after the website elpais-tv.com fabricated claims about his death.
“South African former striker, Benni McCarthy has died aged 39. Best known for his international goals for South Africa, McCarthy was found dead in his car this morning in London by police. The cause of his death is believed to be self-inflicted gunshot wounds,” read the statement on the untrustworthy website.
Benni McCarthy dead hoax
Shortly after the reports surfaced, the Cape Town-born star denied the story on his Facebook account.
“Meanwhile on Facebook, I’m a dead man.”
Also, South African sports presenter, Gershawn Coetzee, called for people to stop spreading fake news. “Benni McCarthy IS NOT DEAD! Please do not spread false news SA,” read Coetzee’s petition. Benni McCarthy retweeted the post.
South Africa international
McCarthy made 80 appearances for South Africa’s national team and scored 32 goals over a 15-year period.
Retired since 2013, he played for Ajax, Celta de Vigo, Porto, Blackburn Rovers and West Ham United, among other teams.