Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Chief Editor
Published on 2024-04-17 22:34:48
Samuel ‘Zoom’ Ndlovu and Godfrey ‘Ucar’ Chitalu are two of the most legendary soccer players to come from Zambia. Deciding who is the greatest between the two is a challenging task. I never had the chance to see either of them play for Zambia, as I was born after a crucial match against Zaire. However, I was given the opportunity to attend a match between Mighty Mufulira Wanderers and Kabwe Warriors at Shinde stadium, thanks to my grandmother’s reward for my improved performance in school.
Watching King Kalu in action during that match sparked my love for soccer. Even though I am a die-hard Kabwe Warriors fan, I still hold Kalu in high regard. Soccer is a beloved sport in Zambia, uniting people across all barriers.
Despite not witnessing Zoom and Ucar play, I lean towards Kalu as Zambia’s greatest player. However, none of these legends were able to lead Zambia to an Africa Cup of Nations victory. That honor came with the arrival of Herve Renard as Zambia’s coach. Watching a practice match under his tutelage in South Africa was an eye-opening experience.
One player, in particular, caught my attention with his mesmerizing skills on the right wing. Rainford Kalaba, also known as the “Master,” displayed incredible passing abilities reminiscent of Charles Musonda. Despite his lack of sprinting abilities, he compensated with his football intelligence. His performance during the 2012 AFCON tournament was outstanding, contributing to Zambia’s historic victory.
Rainford’s impact extended beyond the field, as he garnered love and appreciation in the DRC for his achievements with TP Mazembe. With three Africa Club Champions League medals to his name, he has left a lasting legacy in African football.
Despite facing challenges and a near-death experience, Rainford remains a source of pride for Zambia. His patriotism and dedication to his country were evident on the field, making him a beloved figure in Zambian soccer history. As he continues to recover, we wish him all the best.
As an enthusiastic soccer fan who supports Kabwe Warriors and Liverpool, I find joy in exploring history and philosophy. For any feedback, feel free to contact me at [email protected]
Read the original article on Lusaka Times
