# Lucas Radebe

> South African association football player

**Wikidata**: [Q349473](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q349473)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucas_Radebe)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/lucas-radebe

## Summary
Lucas Radebe is a South African former professional association football player, best known for his career with Leeds United and the South African national team. Born on April 12, 1969, Radebe is celebrated for his leadership and defensive skills, contributing significantly to both his club and country.

## Biography
- **Born**: April 12, 1969
- **Nationality**: South African
- **Education**: Not specified in the source material
- **Known for**: Professional football career with Leeds United and the South African national team
- **Employer(s)**: Leeds United, South African national football team
- **Field(s)**: Association football

## Contributions
Lucas Radebe's primary contributions include his professional football career, notably with Leeds United from 1994 to 2005, and his role as captain of the South African national team. He participated in the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups, showcasing his defensive prowess and leadership. Radebe's career spanned from 1989 to 2005, during which he helped Leeds United achieve domestic and international success, including the 2000 UEFA Cup semifinals.

## FAQs
- **What teams did Lucas Radebe play for?** Radebe played for Leeds United (1994–2005) and the South African national team, among others.
- **What position did Lucas Radebe play?** He primarily played as a defender.
- **What were Lucas Radebe's major career highlights?** Key highlights include captaining the South African national team and participating in the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups.
- **When did Lucas Radebe retire?** He retired in 2005 after a 16-year professional career.

## Why They Matter
Lucas Radebe's career had a lasting impact on South African football, inspiring future generations with his leadership and skill. His participation in international tournaments helped raise the profile of South African football globally. As a key figure in Leeds United's success during the late 1990s and early 2000s, Radebe contributed to the club's reputation in English and European football.

## Notable For
- **Captain of the South African national team**
- **Participant in the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups**
- **Long-term defender for Leeds United (1994–2005)**
- **Leadership in Leeds United's UEFA Cup campaigns**

## Body
### Early Life and Career Beginnings
Lucas Radebe was born on April 12, 1969, in South Africa. While details about his early education are not provided, his football career began in 1989, marking the start of his professional journey.

### Professional Football Career
Radebe's career spanned from 1989 to 2005, with notable time at Leeds United from 1994 to 2005. He established himself as a skilled defender, known for his leadership and defensive abilities. At Leeds United, Radebe played a crucial role in the team's domestic and international competitions, including the UEFA Cup.

### International Career
Radebe captained the South African national team and represented the country in two FIFA World Cups (1998 and 2002). His international career highlighted his significance in South African football, contributing to the nation's sporting identity.

### Retirement and Legacy
Retiring in 2005, Radebe left a legacy as a respected figure in both South African and English football. His career achievements, including his leadership roles and participation in major tournaments, solidified his status as an influential player of his generation.

### Impact on Football
Radebe's defensive skills and leadership influenced younger players and enhanced the reputation of South African football internationally. His contributions to Leeds United's success during his tenure underscored his importance in the club's history.

### Post-Playing Career
While specific post-retirement endeavors are not detailed in the source material, Radebe's legacy continues to be celebrated in the football community, reflecting his enduring impact on the sport.

## References

1. [Source](http://viaf.org/viaf/data/viaf-20170101-links.txt.gz)
2. Transfermarkt
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. X
5. Google Knowledge Graph