‘Time to reflect’

…as Katongo is set to lead Chipolopolo legends against Malawi legends  

By MICHAEL MIYOBA 

SPORTS federations must reflect on the success and failures recorded during the 59 years of the country’s independence, says Zambia Sports Fans Association Patron Peter Makembo.

Makembo noted that it is unfortunate that after 59 years of independence, the country has continued to struggle at various international championships such as the World championships, the Olympics and the Africa Cup of Nations.

He encouraged athletes to work hard to achieve great results for the country at major championships.

“As we celebrate our independence, we need to reflect on what we have done right and wrong in the last 59 years. Sports always plays a key role to unite us as a country especially when results are in our favour,” Makembo said.

“That is why we encourage all stakeholders to come up with a perfect plan that will improve our performances at international championships. We have the 2024 Olympic qualifiers taking place in different regions. We need to ensure that more athletes qualify so that we can have a high chance of producing gold medal winners,” he said.

Makembo also urged the Chipolopolo boys to target winning a second Africa Cup trophy after qualifying for the delayed 2023 AFCON which will take place in January 2024 in Ivory Coast.

Meanwhile, former Chipolopolo captain Christopher Katongo will lead the Chipolopolo legends who will face off with Malawi legends at the newly refurbished David Kaunda Stadium in Chipata.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) confirmed that the match slated for October 28, 2023 will serve as a post-independence birthday gift to football fans as well as cement the friendhip between Zambia and Malawi.

Katongo will lead the Zambian legends team comprising mostly of 2012 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winning squad.

Other notable stars who will feature in the match organised by the FAZ in Eastern Province includes midfielder Chisamba Lungu, defender Chintu Kampamba, Hichani Himoonde, Kalililo Kakonje and Felix Katongo. 

Former Malawi defender now Flames coach Patrick Mabedi will captain the Malawi legends squad that will consist of players that featured at the 2010 AFCON that includes goalkeeper Simplex Nthara and James Sangala. 

Former midfielder Joseph Kamwendo and forward Russell Mwafulirwa, Fisher Kondowe, Elvis Kafoteka, Allan Kamanga and Harry Nyirenda have also made the squad. 

The match will kick-off at 15 hours and will be preceded by a contest involving the Eastern Province U17 team and their Lusaka Province counterparts at 13 hours.