December 31, 2009
Lota was the main man during the days of Dutchman Jan Brouwer
Zambianfootball.net gives you the chance to pick a player you think has been the ‘Best Zambian’ to have ever donned the Chipolopolo shirt in the last decade (2000- ).
A lot of options to pick from but the Zamfoot Crew has decided to choose four players who have had a major impact in what has been the worst spell of the national team in this decade.
Dennis Lota- He played his best club football at Orlando Pirates where his prowess in front of the goal and particularly his celebration (rubbing his palms against each other), earned him the nickname “Chesa Mpama” (loosely translated as “hot slap” in Zulu, one of the local languages in South Africa.
He was part of the Zambian African Nations Cup teams in 1996, 1998, 2000 and 2002.
Lota arrived on the scene at the South Africa 96 African Cup of Nations and scored 3 goals at the tourney.
But here the focus is what he did for the Chipolopolo between 2000 and 2003. Lota was Coach Jan Brouwer’s main striker in that period.
Elijah Tana- is arguably one of the best central defenders to have ever emerged from Africa not to have played in
Elijah Tana is arguably the best defender Zambia has ever produced in recent years
Europe.
‘Dada’ as he is known made his debut international debut against Korea in 1995 and he is still going ‘strong’ in Angola. He played his last game for Zambia in March at the CHAN tournament aged 34 years.
Tana has played club football in Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Angola.
In Zambia he started his career at Roan United before trekking to ‘Brave’ Nchanga Rangers were he marshaled the defence alongside Moses Sichone in the 1998 league title winning team captained by Andrew Sinkala.
One of his highlight of his career is when in kept quite the in-form Senegalese striker El Hadji Diouf at the 2002 African Cup of Nations.
Kalusha Bwalya- He is Zambia’s most capped player, all-time top goalscorer, and is regarded as the greatest Zambian player to play the game. He was named African Footballer of the Year in 1988 by the magazine France Football, and was nominated for the 1996 FIFA World Player of the Year where he was voted the 12th-best player in the world.
While his best days in a Chipolopolo can be attributed to the late 80s and 90s, ‘Great Kalu’s contribution is the noughties is also worth mentioning.
Use Kalu's contribution from 2000 only.
In September 5, 2004, Zambia played Liberia, and the match was tied 0–0 minutes before the end. Kalusha, aged 41, came off the bench during the second half, and marked his 147th appearance with his 100th goal for the country, scoring from a trademark direct free kick to give Zambia a 1-0 victory and the lead of Africa’s Group 1.
Bwalya’s career in Europe began at Cercle Brugge in Belgium. In his first season, he was the club’s top scorer and was twice voted supporters’ player of the year. Such was his impact that Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven took him to the Eredivisie, and he describes winning the championship twice in 1990/91 and 1991/92, under Bobby Robson, as a career highlight.
He also scored a scotcher at Independence Stadium in a Cosafa Cup 3-1 win over Mauritius in 2003.
Kalu was also part of the 2000 and 2002 Zambian African Cup of Nations squads.
He jokingly adds that: “Most of the time we played in the opponents half, because the team was so good. You know, we had Romario, Gerald Vanenburg, Eric Gerets, Wim Kieft and Hans van Breukelen and just to be with that group, to train with them day in, day out, was an experience.”
On the international front, his earliest achievement was arguably one of the most remarkable hat-tricks in modern football history, with three-times World Cup champions Italy on the receiving end in a 4-0 win for the Zambians at the 1988 Olympics. Bwalya acknowledges that the result was a surprise, but adds: “Zambia is a sleeping giant in a way. It is a small country in terms of football, but we were the first African team to beat a European power as convincingly as that.”
The only Zambian since Fred Mwila Sr played for Aston Villa in the 60s to ever play in the EPL
Collins Mbesuma-
Mbesuma made his debut for Zambia in 2003 and had won four caps by the end of that year, while at the same time being a key member of Zambia’s under-23 side that almost qualified for the Athens Olympics.
His performances for the Olympic team caught the attention of Kaizer Chiefs who bought him in January from Roan United in Zambia, where he averaged a goal every other game.
He scored on his debut in South Africa’s Premier Soccer League in 2004 against the Black Leopards but injured himself in the process and spent several weeks on the sidelines.
Mbesuma was named PSL Player of the Season in 2005 after scoring a sensational 35 goals in one season with Kaizer Chiefs. After such an achievement a move to a more prestigious league looked assured, and indeed it was enough to catch the eye of Sam Allardyce, manager of Bolton Wanderers (Le Mans UC72looked to sign him but administrative problems didn’t allow Mbesuma to join France). However, Collins was reluctant to take a trial at the club, feeling his quality was already proven, and so this allowed then-Portsmouth manager Alain Perrin to snap him up on a three-year contract in the summer of 2005. Work permit problems due to the low ranking of his country meant he was not given clearance to join the club until late into pre-season.
Names like Chris Katongo, Andrew Sinkala, Gift Kampamba and Moses Sichone could also make the list but …
So who do you think is the best Zambian player from 2000 to date. Please take note ‘From 2000-. And give a reason for your choice.
162 Comments on "Zambian Player of the Decade?"
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monk p on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 2:48 PM
Mbesuma
Mwape on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 2:59 PM
What of Kalaba, Chris Mweene and Felix. These guys are going to their third CAN if youre talking of the decade D Lota is for the other decade his prime was in 1996 thats more than a decade ago
txamz on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 3:34 PM
for this decade?…definately mbesuma made a name.
Gesh on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 3:37 PM
Eish….we hardly did anything football-wise da past decade so its rather a tough choice!!!!
But if u had to twist my arm behind my back,i’ld go for Mbesuma..he did sign for Pompy and was just a joy to watch,with him,you owez knew we were going to score!!!!
Justice Kafusha on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 3:39 PM
From this list there is no one other than Kalusha and Charles Musonda. Kalusha and Musonda are in the hall of Fame of Zanbian football including the following players Zoom, Ucar, Ben Bomber, Brighton Sinyangwe, Willie Phiri, Emment Kapengwe, Horward Mwikuta, J.G. Pensulo, Sefelino Chileshe, Emanuel Mwape (once voted the best in africa Cairo1974), Peter M’hanog( the king of headers), Benson “Swift” Musonda, Goerge ” 50-50″Mofya, Little ” Joe Musonda”, Ruben Sakala, Sanday Kaposa, Stanely Phiri, Stanely Tembo, Lewis Shambulo, David Walubita, Jani Simulambo, Robert Lutoba, Miltone Muke, Emmy Musonda, Michael Musonda, Burton ” ZAMCAB”Mugala, Mustafa kalizamani, Jack Chanda, Big Michael Chabala, Russian tanker Jericho Shinde, Fa bino Mwaba, Kampela Kutumba, Pele Kaimana, Fanny Hangunyu, and all those who could not make my list
Let us have fearless people in front
Justice Kafusha on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 3:40 PM
Peter M’hango
Justice Kafusha on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 3:41 PM
fabiano Mwaba
DaMwiinger on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 4:29 PM
Mmmmm, I am not decided between Tana and Colins. Kalu is the greatest ever but he didn’t do as much in the last decade. He has also done so much damage off the field of play in his attempt at football administration. On Lota, I concur with Mwape.
Mbesuma’s achievements were phenomenal be it he didn’t make much of a name at National team level-remember one of the issues before joining Pompey was the number of games he played for the national team. The downside is his self destruction. I have Tana in there simply for his dependability and level-headedness. The guy is still playing as a professional at his age! That speaks volumes for the guy.
So if I understand you correctly to say that we are looking for the “Best Zambian”, then Tana wins it for me. He is the best ambasador for the country.
Jojo on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 4:42 PM
My choice would be COLLINS MBESUMA,i first watched collins in 02 or 03 when roan utd played nkana at arthur davies stadium,before the game all the talk was about this left footed striker from roan who plays with his collar lifted up,he was unbelievable,the things he did with the ball were breathtaking,he was a bit smaller by then and operated more on the left,he also had a lot of pace,incidentally roan utd were again at arthur davies the next weekend to play power and the stadium was almost full as everyone came to see this player whom everybody had been talking about,he then tore to shreds a formidable power defence comprising billy mwansa,stephen kunda and manaseh mwanza..
in south africa he went and shattered the scoring records when he scored 37 goals in 46 appearances,he won both golden boot and footballer of the year,even though he failed to make it at portsmouth,am sure every zambian was proud to see fellow zambian in the premiership,he also scored some important goals for zambia as well,his hatrick in congo,hes equaliser for zambia against mali in chililabombwe,his 4 goals in the mini cosafa tournament at woodlands stadium etc,in portugal even though he was plaged by injury he still managed to score 7 goals in his one season there…
He has been very contraversial off the pitch he has made a lot of mistakes and done some very bad things,but on the pitch when he was at his peak,he was a marvel to watch,so when you talk about the best zambian player in the last 10 years,there is no player here who has achieved what collins mbesuma has in that period and personally he is the best player that i have seen im the last 10 years..
Anonymous on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 4:54 PM
well said jojo, you have been following this chap closely.
Seen from afar on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 5:11 PM
Elijah Tana. Easily!
Alex on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 5:18 PM
Immediately! I also go for mbesuma. Tana – same old story of defenders versus strikers. Only canavaro was an exception in the game.otherwise tana has been a decade contender.
franz on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 5:41 PM
Mbesuma is definately the one.
JIGGYBOY on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 5:42 PM
If the period under consideration is from 2000 to date, then Mbesuma does it for me. That hatric against congo brazaville is unforgotable
JIGGYBOY on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 5:54 PM
Mbesuma, the only Zambian player to have set a foot in the world’s most lucrative and widely watched league (English Premiership)
Seen from afar on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 6:18 PM
In previous African cups, there have been many times when we conceded costly “soft” goals if you look back in hindsight. It’s always been a feature, but Tana promises to change that. When you look at his body language it always reads well, he does not accept anything soft, his ferocity and intensity demands the very best from all the players around him. The look on his face is always one of total focus, determination, support and that is all you can ask for from players. That carries through to his game and makes him the outstanding player he is! What every Zambian is hoping at home, you can be sure Tana is going to try and do. He’s represents the will of the people.
In Mali 2002 and Egypt 2006 you saw this at it’s best, he was driving force of the team, when we needed to come back in a game, it’s he who sparks it, pushing players forward and even attacking himself… I’ve listened to commentators on Eurosport and on BBC, often they cannot take Zambia’s attempts seriously, when they compare them to the high levels of professionalism, organisation and composure teams Cameroun and Sengal display. But, i know they all remember the man because you have to acknowledge such rare and outstanding gallant performances. There logic tells them it’s unrealistic, but Tana’s effort makes them think twice. Not only the example he sets but the records/goals and statistics prove what a great player he is.
Respect.
wise on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 6:38 PM
i would go 4 collins,i remember watching him when power dynamos loaned him from roan united.power were playing against wardad casssablanca of morocco,hey!the gy was superb
Anonymous on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 6:39 PM
Mweene best zambian goalie ever
Sibs on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 7:00 PM
Mbesuma despite his quick decline. His the Man !!
Amuna Onzuna on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 7:06 PM
It can only be Kalusha Bwalya.When making a choice,you look at the impact a player has/had at club level as well as at Country represantation.Kalusha was very commited to the National Team,even after his Teamates perished,he soldiered on to lead a Team of Under-dogs to CAN1994 in Tunisia,and we all know the results.The second player would be Tana as he was also commited and has many caps for Chipolopolo.Charles Musonda was good,but lets see what he did for Zambia internationally,I feel he wasnt commited despite being heavly talented.
Nams on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 7:21 PM
COLLINS MBESUMA
Gametime12 on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 7:36 PM
This one has Collins Mbesuma’s name written all over it. I can tell you that there’s a few left footed central strikers in the world and Collins Mbesuma happens to be one of them. Its just sad that our players don’t realize what they are missing out on. Mbesuma could have easily become a household name in England.
Gametime12 on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 7:45 PM
Zambians satisfied with SA camp
Posted: 2009-12-30 11:53
The Zambian national team, which is currently camping in Johannesburg, say they are satisfied with their preparations ahead of next month’s Afcon in Angola.
Chipolopolo team manager Solly Pandor tells KickOff.com that they will remain in the country until January 10 and then jet off straight to Angola where they are in Group D together with Tunisia, Cameroon and Gabon.
“We have been doing very well since we arrived here. The weather has been good for our training and we hope that what we have learnt from friendly game against Mozambique will go a long way in our preparations,” he says.
The team will play another friendly game against Togo, probably on January 3 at a venue yet to be decided by both teams.
Mpumalanga Black Aces talented midfielder Clifford Mulenga has seen his form at club level win him a trip to Angola together with seven other PSL players.
These are: Kennedy Mweene (Free State Stars), Kalililo Kakonje (AmaZulu), Joseph Musonda (Golden Arrows), Kampamba Chintu (AmaZulu), Noah Chivuta (Maritzburg United), Felix Katongo (Mamelodi Sundowns) and Collins Mbesuma (Moroka Swallows).
Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Kalusha Bwalya is also happy with the way the training is going and has hope in the team.
The full squad is:
Goalkeepers: Kennedy Mweene (Free State Stars), Kalililo Kakonje (AmaZulu), Jacob Banda (Zesco United)
Defenders: Joseph Musonda (Golden Arrows), Thomas Nyirenda (Zanaco, Zambia), Emmanuel Mbola(Yerevan Pyunik, Armenia), Kampamba Chintu (AmaZulu),Dennis Banda (Green Buffaloes, Zambia), Himonde Hichani(TP Mazembe, DRC), Stoppila Sunzu (Zanaco, Zambia), Francis Kasonde (Al Suwaiq, Oman).
Midfielders: Isaac Chansa (IFK Helsingborg, Sweden), William Njobvu (Kyiriat Shomne, Israel), Rainford Kalaba (Uniao Leira, Portugal), Noah Chivuta (Maritzburg United), Felix Katongo (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Clifford Mulenga (Mpumalanga Black Aces), Jacob Mulenga (FC Utrecht, The Netherlands).
Forwards: James Chamanga (Dalian Shide, China) Given Singuluma (TP Mazembe, DRC), Christopher Katongo (Ariminia Bielefeld, Germany) Emmanuel Mayuka (Maccabi Tel Aviv, Israel), Collins Mbesuma (Moroka Swallows).
Mwaume on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 8:06 PM
Mbesuma for sure
SHOOTTER on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 8:34 PM
Zamfoot, Introduce the ‘Polls’ like kickoff, so that we can see who is a clear winner through votes and percentage.
And for me, no Zambian player has made more ‘headlines’ in this Decade! than MBESUMA.
Asilikale on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 8:50 PM
If u said for the past 2 decade i would say Boxer kalusha bwalya,bt as long as u stick to one decade from 2 pin up2 nw then kalu is out coz the old man costed us cosafa cup at independence stadium when he missd a penalt and as a coach he did bad leavng out the best players evntho he carried them he never used our star players until he was forced in the last game and we won the only game and kissd gud bye to mali afcon,lol worse he did is to be a Faz president .
Lol Elija Tana zambian John Terry is the man,he sacrificed his head jst to score from behind.
Elija Tana.
Kayula on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 9:32 PM
Collins’ breaking into the EPL was indeed an amazing feat but my vote goes to Elijah Tana for his consistency & reliability . Isnt Tana the most capped player for the decade?
bola panshi on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 10:59 PM
MBESUMA!!!!!!!!!
Seasoned Soccer Fan-USA on Thu, 31st Dec 2009 11:56 PM
For the Last decade it is Mbesuma. 35 GOALS in PSL. Scored a Hatrick against Congo Brazzaville in Brazzaville and broke the jinx of Zambian players to feature in English Premier.
In the last 2 decades it is Kalu.
Best Defender Tana in the last decade.
So Zamfoot you need to refine the selection you have provided. Mixing old and young players in this is a tricky to make the choice. We hope you can also publish the final tally and who wins the Zambian Player of the decade. So far Mbesuma leads the pack.
The Gaffer on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 1:04 AM
Tana has a big shout because of his consistency to do it at the top level for club and country. Good defenders are a premium and highly sought after as are good forwards. Objectively, scoring is the most difficult aspect of this game, and so in this case because I have to choose, i will go with the prolific goalscorer, I have to say Mbesuma.
Jojo on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 1:29 AM
Happy new year to all the bloggers,lets just hope zambian soccer fans will have much more things to smile about in the new decade….
Seen from afar on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 2:26 AM
Happy New year folks!
@Jojo
amen to that!
Man ceasor on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 2:41 AM
surely i go 4collins
Mario on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 4:16 AM
Definitely Collins Mbesuma
Skillari on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 6:35 AM
Its Collinto!!!!!!
Sibs on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 8:45 AM
Happy New Year Guys.
vincent mudekwa on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 11:52 AM
My vote goes for collins mbesuma, i remeber him in the cosafa cup match when zambia was playing malawi, The guy was hot in the game.
Billy on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 5:23 PM
There has never been a best player in Zambia. Bonse makula fye chabe. Best players are in the mould of Etoo, Essien, Drogba, Weah, Okocha, Kanu etc.
desire on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 7:45 PM
for me its lota his days, zambia was hot after that its all crap i really didn’t get to see mbesuma play as i moved to canada in 2002..
desire on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 7:46 PM
look at lota’s photo even his body language tells the whole story about him!!!!!!!!!!!!!
chalie on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 9:50 PM
mbesuma
Anonymous on Fri, 1st Jan 2010 11:30 PM
@Billy
‘ULICHIPUBA’ SANA , KANYELE UKUTALI.
Positive thinking a.k.a Awe (17.03%) on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 1:18 AM
@Dr five
Even though I wouldn’t let him take my temperature I agree with Dr Five; team of the decade, best and worst moments.
bola panshi on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 9:16 AM
ANGOLA-based winger Danny Hangunyu has expressed disappointment with reports that he shuns national team duty.
Speaking in an interview from Angola yesterday, Hangunyu of Clube Desportivo de Agosto said he was disappointed with reports he was hearing from Zambia that he shuns Chipolopolo call-ups, including the Africa Cup of Nations training camp in South Africa.
“The reason why I don’t show up whenever I am called to the national team is because I don’t receive invitation letters. Like in this instance, I only received a phone call from the team manager Mr Pandor (Solly) that I was in the team and that I travel,” he said.
Hangunyu said it is very difficult to travel when his club is not informed.
“I asked my club officials if they had received an invitation letter from the FA but they said they didn’t so it’s very difficult to convince them (club officials) and they can’t take me seriously. This thing has been happening even for the COSAFA it was the same thing,” he said.
Hangunyu added that he is ready to play for Chipolopolo if right channels are use to invite him.
“I am ready to play for Zambia when right channels are used,” he said.
Hangunyu wished Chipolopolo good luck at the Africa Cup which kicks off on January 10.
“I am wishing them all the best,” said Hangunyu.
Chipolopolo coach Herve Renard dropped Hangunyu and Nigeria-based striker Signs Chibambo because they did not show up for training camp in Johannesburg last week.
However, Chibambo has also blamed FAZ for his failure to report for training, claiming he was waiting for further instructions from FAZ general secretary George Kasengele.
Asilikale on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 10:34 AM
Congrats to Chisamba Lungu,next should be the Yobe bros and Hangunyu its too much of favourite players in Zambia.
For your own infor Chisamba is no longer a Zambian,all bcoz of his massive talent not recognised by Faz.And hez already in Geogia U-21 national team.
Justice Kafusha on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 12:30 PM
ANGOLA-based winger Danny Hangunyu has expressed disappointment with reports that he shuns national team duty. Speaking in an interview from Angola yesterday, Hangunyu of Clube Desportivo de Agosto said he was disappointed with reports he was hearing from Zambia that he shuns Chipolopolo call-ups, including the Africa Cup of Nations training camp in South Africa. “The reason why I don’t show up whenever I am called to the national team is because I don’t receive invitation letters. Like in this instance, I only received a phone call from the team manager Mr Pandor (Solly) that I was in the team and that I travel,” he said. Hangunyu said it is very difficult to travel when his club is not informed.
“I asked my club officials if they had received an invitation letter from the FA but they said they didn’t so it’s very difficult to convince them (club officials) and they can’t take me seriously. This thing has been happening even for the COSAFA it was the same thing,” he said. Hangunyu added that he is ready to play for Chipolopolo if right channels are use to invite him. “I am ready to play for Zambia when right channels are used,” he said. Hangunyu wished Chipolopolo good luck at the Africa Cup which kicks off on January 10. “I am wishing them all the best,” said Hangunyu. Chipolopolo coach Herve Renard dropped Hangunyu and Nigeria-based striker Signs Chibambo because they did not show up for training camp in Johannesburg last week. However, Chibambo has also blamed FAZ for his failure to report for training, claiming he was waiting for further instructions from FAZ general secretary George Kasengele.
Justice Kafusha on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 12:30 PM
Who do you trust?????
Mabbwana on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 1:45 PM
Yep, Iread this one as well and was thinking…. What a mess. What doesnt really come out well is when Erick goes on record blaming the players when the FAZ actually didnt play their part well.
Mabbwana on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 2:00 PM
Sikalumamba, kindly shade more light on this or lead us to the link if there’s any with the story.
Justice Kafusha on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 2:40 PM
I do not understand this. I have been in Denmark for 20 years but I am still Zambian
tino on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 3:05 PM
Watchin soccer africa on supersport and the guyz are laughin at Kalu and sayin zambia is the only country that wont benefit from the world cup as we r the only ones wit poor infrastructure.so embarrasing.i thnk the govt nd business community have failed us
Sibs on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 5:14 PM
How long has Chisamba been in Georgia? I think he hasn’t even clocked 3 years. Please someone help me.
Asilikale on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 5:51 PM
@mabwaana
check todays Post paper
Am now startng to believe why Faz doesnt have a website.Faz has one of their best weapon rule tht is,keep it administrative when u expand this u will find out it mean alot like
-No website for coments.
-What is in is never out.
But am glad players are speakng out,at first it was Cliff,chansa,sinkala,signs now its hangunyu this is good spirit,for zambian football.
Gametime12 on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 5:53 PM
Ba FaZ should have done their job here, are they telling me that they do not monitor Zambian players playing abroad? But futi Chisamba too quick to forget were he comes from, what he does not realize is that people want him to play for Georgia because of his talent not because of who he is. Once he breaks a leg I dont know if he’ll get vip treatment from those people.
Kemps-Mwape Mwelwa on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 6:21 PM
This is an exercise in futility
Mabbwana on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 6:58 PM
Spot-on Gametime.
I also thot he was too quick to move. Chisamba was called to one of the junior teams just before he left. I would want to believe he did not fall too far under the radar to say he wasnt being considered. I doubt if he would have honored the call up if he had been called to play in the U20 COSAFA tournament as the european leagues were still very active.
Seen from afar on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 7:20 PM
Well, it’s a real shame. He has been there a season, not even a year. How does Georgia get away with it???
There’s no doubt they love him and are willing to pull strings for him.
More reasons why we need an FA that works!!!
DaMwiinger on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 9:33 PM
Zamfoot, the site has too many viruses, even google warns you against it. Please do something about this
Sibs on Sat, 2nd Jan 2010 9:51 PM
Yeah G12 The young man moved too quick i hope he knows what he is getting involved in. I feel the young man was not really ignored as such but with time maybe he could have played for his home country especially if he had improved.
But you never know again with the powers that be if the could have had a look at him in future.
Mwape on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 9:46 AM
How long has kabamba been in zambia? Let learn from our friends,it not even 3 yrs that chisamba has been in georgia but they took the chance. Shame on them ba faz.
Man ceasor on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 11:30 AM
zamfoot dis story has been here since 31st dec,2009.r there no stories or nt.n update on our national team
Kapunda, China on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 11:44 AM
Good job Zamfoot
Justice Kafusha on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 11:46 AM
Mupokeni passport
Sibs on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 1:06 PM
Kabamba has left Zanaco and now joined a team in Angola. With this move it makes it even more difficult for the guy to ever play for Zed.
Man ceasor on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 1:40 PM
zamfoot how long wl it take 4u 2giv us da results 4da player of da decade?it looks lik pipo ve stop votin
Seen from afar on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 2:18 PM
@Man ceasor
I think the purpose of this post is to discuss and not to say definitively.
BTW guys, the decade is not over yet, you can say there is still one year to go. So there’s time for someone, Chris, Collins to steal the show…
Best team is the current one
Best moment is drawing Egypt in Cairo
Worst team is one that didn’t qualify
Worst moment is getting beat 4 goals to Togo
Jeff katawa on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 2:42 PM
I think its time 4a new story before the site gets boring.otherwise i think Tana has bin outstanding the past 9 to 10 years
justice kafushaernet at time on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 3:30 PM
We are all free to come up with new stories. Can’t u search the Internet at times.
justice kafusha on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 3:31 PM
Sorry with the mistake in my name. Ala ni new year
Sibs on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 6:37 PM
Ala Ba Justice ni ka hang over or shani ?? Huh, huh, huh……. .
Anonymous on Sun, 3rd Jan 2010 9:12 PM
Zamfoot, are you on strike or what?
isaac malukutu on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 8:47 AM
My player of the decade is Dennis Lota he was very polific striker i remember the goal against egypt ,it was terrific.
Vincent Numbwa on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 8:56 AM
Tana has been the most consistent.
Winza Sichali on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 9:07 AM
I would say Tana is my player of the decade.
Big Steve from SA on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 9:11 AM
O.k the holidays are over back to business. Disapointing info so far is
1. Chisamba has grabed an oportunity becuase we were too slow to give him one. I dont blame the lad soccer is too short a career to sit around hoping when opportunities like this come by. FAZ again proving to be joke. Next it will be all Chali cools kids.
2. Kabamba has left Zambia whilst FAZ sits on their a_s. We had a chance to snap up a striker of note but then again FAZ again proved their effeciency in being useless.
3. Gatusso is considering a PSL return. Now talk about being visionless. The Zedian spirit lives on.
On a lighter side I think Kalu is not supposed to be on this greatest player list if it is from 2000. Mbesuma caused history to be re-written. He failed in Europe but his achievement on the continent re-wrote the history books with something new so for me he makes my player of the decade. With all due repect to Lota and Tana they made a huge mark but not huge enough to re-write history.
floyd on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 9:29 AM
Kalu has no size south of the equator. His profile is very rich. As for contribution to the Zambian football, it is there for all to see. Served as National Team coach, FAZ president, National Team captain, as a pro he was very patriotic and fulfilled most of the National team assignments. The only one todate in southern Africa to be voted Africa Footballer of the year. His hattrick against Italy put Zambia on the football map. The list is endless.
Gerald k s on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 9:30 AM
chisamba you are talking about refused honour call up yfor u20 in 2007 ,world cup in canada. youny is in the hurry,look at clifford he has not changed his nationality
dan man on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 9:36 AM
lota is my man…………………..
Nathan on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 9:58 AM
Up date your site. We want to know what happened to the game we were suppose to play against Togo.
Amuna Onzuna on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:00 AM
Zambia face Super Eagles
By Sports Reporter
ZAMBIA is tomorrow scheduled to play the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a preparatory match for the Orange African Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicking-off in Angola on Sunday.
This follows botched proposed friendly matches against Malawi and Benin due to the two nation’s different commitments.
Zambia and Nigeria are both camped in South Africa where the two teams are shaping up for the AFCON.
Nigeria’s media coordinator Idah Peterside told SuperSport.com that FAZ president Kalusha Bwalya requested for a friendly match when the Super Eagles landed in South Africa for their camping programme.
Peterside said the two parties were yet to finalise the deal for the preparatory match set for Johannesburg where the Chipolopolo Boys are camped.
The proposed match would be played in Johannesburg rather than Durban where the Nigerians were shaping up for the continental showpiece.
“Zambian FA president Kalusha Bwalya got in touch with us when the team landed in South Africa about a friendly match. Discussions are taking place between both parties and we expect things to be finalised for the match to be played on Tuesday,” he said.
Zambia who arrived in South Africa over a week ago have only had one friendly against Mozambique which the Chipolopolo won via Collins Mbesuma’s lone goal, while the proposed ties against Malawi and Benin did not materialise.
Zambia is Group D with Cameroun, Tunisia and Gabon, while Nigeria is pitted against defending champions Egypt, Mozambique and Benin in Group C.
Nigeria, the two-time African champions beat Zambia 2-1 to lift the 1994 Nations Cup trophy in Tunisia.
Meanwhile, the Chipolopolo are optimistic of ending the 14-year hurdle of failing to reach the Nations Cup quarter-finals.
Zambia midfielder, Noah Chivuta said the squad had given itself a target of breaking into the quarter-finals for the first time since the South Africa 1996 edition where Zambia won bronze in the play-off with Ghana.
Chivuta said in an interview from Johannesburg yesterday that the team was determined to qualify to the knock-out stage and that everybody in camp was ready for the challenge ahead.
The Maritzburg United player said the team was focused for the AFCON task and promised their best performance.
“Our target is to pass through the group stage – it’s been long. This is the hurdle we’ve to get past and we are all geared for it,” Chivuta said.
He said preparations for the Nations Cup were progressing well and that there were no hiccups in the team.
Team manager, Solly Pandor said after a hectic training programme, the Herve Renard-led technical bench gave the players a break yesterday to allow them to rest before going into the final phase of preparations.
“We’ve been training every day since we came here, so the boys have been given a break today so that they can rest,” he said at OR Tambo International Airport where he was collecting footballs for the team’s use at the Nations Cup.
IS IT CONFIRMED?
Amuna Onzuna on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:16 AM
My Man,you cant blame FAZ for Kabamba issue,its very complex,find out how long the has stayed in Zambia for him to granted Citizenship.Do you know that Solomon Kalou failed to get dutch citizenship inorder for him to play in the last World Cup in Germany,and do you know why?,Was it the FA in Holand which was sleeping or the Dutch Parliament?.On Chisamba,I think the young Man is not patroitic,I was going to cry if he was playing for a Big Team in Europe like Real Madrid,Man U,etc…etc.
I hope we wont lose Charles Musonda’s kids,but their Father has to urge his Kids to come to Zambia very often.I wonder if Charles visits his relatives in Zambia,coz that is key to urging his Kids to come.
Never on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:27 AM
It is now energing that Eric Mwanza is after all a pathological liar.
Never on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:33 AM
Do not yet panick on Chisamba he can still play for Zambia since is yet to play for Georgia senior team.
Fred shimbi on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:39 AM
Great Kalu is the greatest footballer out of Zambia, the accolades speak for themselves but considering the period at hand (2000 – 2010) Mbesuma stands out as the best player of the decade. Our expectations from Collins are very high and he just has to prove during the 2010 AFCON that he is worth my vote.
Jojo on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:55 AM
Dennis lota scored zambia’s first goal of the decade while collins mbesuna scored the last..
Jojo on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 11:02 AM
Best moment of the decade is beating south africa 3.1 to qualify for the last afcon..
Worst moment of the decade is losing 3nil in benin in 2003 and miss out on afcon..
Man ceasor on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 1:19 PM
Thanks zamfoot 4inform us y u r nt putin new stories,6days is just 2long,God bless yo work.
Skillari on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 1:29 PM
Cheers Zamfoot, happy and prosperous new year.
chipolopolo 1 on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 1:46 PM
Nigeria line up Zambia friendly
Posted: 2010-01-04 10:09
Nigeria may play Zambia on Tuesday in a friendly as part of their preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Super Eagles Media Coordinator Idah Peterside told KickOffNigeria.com that the Zambia FA has been in contact and details of the proposed friendly are being finalized.
“Zambian FA President Kalusha Bwalya got in touch with us when the team landed in South Africa about a friendly match.
“Discussions are taking place between both parties and we expect things to be finalised by Monday.”
Bwalya confirmed the story to KickOffNigeria.com
“Yes, we are very keen on a match with the Super Eagles and we have spoken about a friendly,” he said when asked.
According to Peterside, the proposed game will be played in Johannesburg, rather than in Durban where the Eagles are camped in preparation for their Nations Cup campaign.
Nigeria are grouped with Egypt, Mozambique and Benin Republic while Zambia have to contend with Cameroon, Tunisia and Gabon.
chisa on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 3:44 PM
guys chisamba can play 4 any junior team any where, but once he plays 4 the senior team of Georgia its over, 4 now do not worry much
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 6:16 PM
I think Mbesuma, Chris Katongo, Elijah Tana all deserve to be in the player of the decade category. Tana has been the most consistent performer, Chris even though is not mentioned has had plenty of good seasons unlike Mbesuma who had one breakout year before things went from bad to worse. Chris was also top scorer in the PSL, he was also a consistent performer in Denmark (not scoring that many goals, but always a constant feature) internationally he single handedly got us to AFCON and he continued being in form. Mbesuma achieved so much, but it was all in one breakout year which is my only reason for not picking him…one good year does not make you player of the decade. Dennis lota was so amazing back in the day, we even miss more now. First time I watched that boy was when put two past the SA keeper in the Four Nations tournament in SA..it ended 2-2. There weren’t too many exploits for Lota in this decade, but 1995-2000 he was the man upfront. By 2004 I think his time was up in the national team. Wish we had qualified for 2004 AFCON we could have seen Lotas last show. Great striker with eye for goal even as small as he was, he was able to get in behind the defense. He had that untrainable quality that strikers have..being in the right place at the right time, and he also had some good pace.
Tana has to be it, because even though his job is not glamorous the player has been solid throughout the years. The only time I think he had what seemed like a bad game was in CHAN…otherwise he has been a strong performer in the Zed defense over the years.
Honourable mention should go to Clifford Mulenga who in the last decade achieved a continental award of being young african player of the year, and he also captained the U20 to a second round finish in the Junior World Cup, had he had time in the senior jersey..I think he would have been a contender for player of the decade.
Best moment/most surprising for me: Beating SA 3-1 in SA
Worst Moment: Losing 2-0 to Algeria in world cup qualifiers and losing 5-1 to Cameroon with a qtr final place right within reach
Best Performance: Chris Katongo against SA in the 3-1 win
Best Goal: That Felix cracker against Togo (I think)
Best Young Player: Mbola who with his confidence will be fun to watch at AFCON, he reminds me of Happy Sichikolo when he first played ku AFCON 94… I remember he marked Ivorycoast “dangerman” during the first game, but he got injured early in the tournament so ba Mordon had to take over
“What the hell” moment of the decade: That london trip…seriously ..what the hell?
“Oh no he didn’t” moment: Erick Mwanza lying to the zed public again and Justice Kafusha for the 16th time, oh and Kalu slapping that reporter is a close second
Team of the decade 2000-2009: Mweene, Joseph Musonda, Mbola, Tana, Nyambe M/d banda, Sinkala, G Kampamba, Kalusha Bwalya, Chris Katongo, Dennis Lota, Mbesuma (the ntofo ntofo edition)
Seen from afar on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 7:25 PM
Nice one Awe, Chris certainly should be on the list… i believe he won the cup with brondby and third in the league, he actually played bundesliga which i have to doesn’t compare to coming on as a late substitute for not even a handful of games in the EPL…
I would put Felix in your list, Kalaba is coming along, but Felix has done loads especially in Ghana…
Zed # 1 on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 7:50 PM
Tana tops it for me, the gentleman has played top form football consistently for this past decade. Lets discount the drop in form he has faced this past year due to age & various frustrations we are all aware of. Bravo big Tana..!
Jojo on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 7:52 PM
For WORST STRIKER OF THE DECADE,the nominees are
Enock sakala,philemon chipeta,sandros kumwenda,cosmas banda,peter mutale,january zyambo,owen kaposa,keegan phiri,justin mwilima,dube phiri,zachariah simukonda,owen mwendabayi and musonda mweuku
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 9:30 PM
Oh sorry I guess the Capt of the under-20 was/is Justine Zulu not Clifford
Jojo on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:03 PM
The captain of that under 20 team was sebastian mwansa
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:43 PM
@Jojo
Thanks mudala
Jojo on Mon, 4th Jan 2010 10:55 PM
collins mbesuma played for swallows this evening when they lost 2.1 to german champions wolfsburg…volkswagen who are the shirt sponsors of both teams are the ones who organised the game,am guessing swallows got permission from the zambian camp to use mbesuma since the game took place in sa,
tino on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 7:58 AM
i was just going through some comments on Kick Off. concerning the game between Zambia and Nigeria. Most if not all the Nigerian fans are happy that their team will be playing Zambia,it seems they hold Zambia with a lot of respect as they seem so happy.
tino on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 8:32 AM
By Kalumiana Kalumiana and Augustine Mukoka
CHIPOLOPOLO’S proposed friendly against Nigeria’s Super Eagles has been moved to Thursday.
And Chipolopolo winger Clifford Mulenga’s wife, Mpho, has wished Zambia good luck at the Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.
The match was earlier reportedly set for today at an unnamed venue.
Nigeria national team media officer Idah Peterside said in an interview from Durban yesterday that the final modalities of the friendly were being worked out by last evening.
“We are looking at Thursday,” Peterside said. “But we are still working out the details that I can only confirm this Monday evening. It is not a friendly as such, just an informal training match.”
Peterside said the Nigerian and Zambian technical teams were trying to work out a suitable venue for the match.
“Nigeria are in Durban and Zambia are in Johannesburg so we are still trying to look at the logistics of moving teams for the game,” he said.
Nigeria set up training camp in Durban over the weekend before heading to Benguela where they will play their Group C matches with Egypt, Mozambique and Benin at the Africa Cup
Meanwhile, Zambia take on South Korea on Saturday in Johannesburg before leaving for Luanda on Sunday morning.
Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) media officer Erick Mwanza said the venue and kickoff times for the game against South Korea had yet to be decided.
Meanwhile, Mulenga’s wife, Mpho, said she was looking forward to seeing Zambia perform well at the tournament kicking off on January 10.
Mpho, who is in the country with the couple’s four-month-old daughter Palesa Calantha Mulenga, said Herve Renard’s side had the potential to do well at the competition.
“I’m wishing the team good luck. I hope they can go to the second round, I also hope my husband can score some goals,” she said with a smile, adding; “He Mulenga has been working hard of late.”
Mpho, who has been on a two-weeks visit to Zambia, said she would have loved to travel to Angola for the tournament but would only be watching the matches on television from their South African home.
Mulenga was summoned back to national duty after being sidelined for over eight months.
The Mphumalanga Aces player has been in top form in the South African league, prompting Renard to succumb to calls for his inclusion.
Winza Sichali on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 8:57 AM
Was Sandros Kumwenda ever given a chance to showcase his skills at national level or he was frustrated and kept out simply because he was playing in Zimbabwe. The same for Muhammed Seedat who played for city of Lusaka. He should have featured for even five minutes in that COSAFA winning team that Fighton Coached but i think we were still not ready to have a player of Asian origin in the team ( psychologically i think ) otherwise, he was good enough for COSAFA.
Red devil on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 9:10 AM
The friendly will be on wednesday, it will be played at absa stadium in durban. At 4pm SA time.
Never on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 9:23 AM
According to Idah Peterside the super eagles information aide, its not a friendly match but a training match.
chiti chitundu on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 9:42 AM
i agree that TANA has been the most consistent and the best player . he has captained both club and country and he was never known for shunning call ups. he was a guy who was always available to play for zambia any where anytime no matter how small the tournament. i would also say that andrew sinkala and chintu can also be in the top ten for their consisntency (thats where mbesuma will run short) i think TANA tops all. He is and was a seasoned player.
Alex on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 9:48 AM
@Never nigeria is afraid of losing hence calling the game training/practice match whatever. Lets wire them and weelee!
chipolopolo 1 on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 9:50 AM
Nigeria, Zambia to meet Wednesday
Posted: 2010-01-05 07:37
Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Zambia’s Chipolopolo have reached an agreement to play a friendly ahead of the African Nations Cup starting next week in Angola.
The game will be played on Wednesday at the Absa Stadium in Durban, but will be played behind closed doors, as both sides look to fine-tune tactics for the competition.
Super Eagles media officer Idah Peterside and Football Association of Zambia President Kalusha Bwalya both confirmed the development late on Monday night, following a long meeting between both parties.
“We had a meeting and both sides have agreed to play the match,” Peterside told KickOffNigeria.com.
“The game will be played behind closed doors at 4pm South African time in Durban. But both teams agreed that it will be behind closed doors.”
Bwalya said that his side were excited about the prospect of playing the Super Eagles.
“Yes, it’s correct that we have come to an agreement about the friendly match. Chipolopolo are looking forward to Wednesday,” he told KickOffNigeria.com.
Nigeria defeated Zambia, captained by Bwalya, in 1994 to lift the Africa Cup of Nations
isaac malukutu on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 9:52 AM
For information only ,Billy Mwanza and Clive Hachilensa have joined Zesco Utd.
Sibs on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 10:16 AM
I don’t think Nigeria is scared of losing because they have a stronger team on paper than us. Though the lost 1-0 during the week when the played another training game against a local club Thanda Zulu Royals (Division 1).
Though Nigerian fans seem not to be happy with the team’s preparations as they have not been able to play an official friendly game. Some fans have been saying their FA is disorganised.
Mabbwana on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 10:17 AM
@Positive thinking ..aka Awe
Goodone mdala…
There’s alot of Zambian football in you. I would like to find out on the team of the decade. You are playing 4 Strikers.. or is it that you are looking at pushing Kalu and Chris wide on the flanks?
Winza Sichali on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 10:30 AM
I hope by playing Nigeria – training game or whatever we wish to brand it, we wont be making the same 1996 mistake. If we qualify from our group to the quarters, there is a possibility that we will meet Nigeria, or any other team in that group. In 1996, we played Tunisia in a freindly, wired them 2 : 0 and were over confident when we met them in the tournament. The result was a 1 :4 bashing !
Big Steve from SA on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 10:31 AM
Testing 1 2
bola panshi on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 10:35 AM
GROUP D SQUADS
Cameroon
Goalkeepers: Guy Roland N’Dy Assembe (Valenciennes, France), Idriss Carlos Kameni (Espanyol, Spain), Hamidou Souleymanou (Kayserispor, Turkey)
Defenders: Henri Bedimo (Chateauroux, France), Andre Bikey (Burnley, England), Gilles Binya (Neuchatel Xamax, Switzerland), Geremi (Newcastle United, England), Joel Matip (Schalke 04, Germany), Nicolas Nkoulou (Monaco, France), Rigobert Song (Trabzonspor, Turkey)
Midfielders: Aurelien Chedjou (Lille, France), Enoh Eyong (Ajax Amsterdam, Netherlands) Jean Makoun (Olympique Lyon, France), Georges Mandjeck (Kaiserslautern, Germany), Stephane Mbia (Olympique Marseille, France), Landry Nguemo (Glasgow Celtic, Scotland), Alexandre Song (Arsenal, England)
Forwards: Paul Alo’o Efoulou (Nancy,France), Achille Emana (Real Betis, Spain), Samuel Eto’o (Inter Milan, Italy), Mohamadou Idrissou (SC Freiburg, Germany), Somen Tchoyi (Salzburg, Austria), Achille Webo (Mallorca, Spain)
Gabon
Goalkeepers: Yves Bitseki Moto (US Bitam), Claude Boris Nguema (Telestars), Didier Ovono (Le Mans, France)
Defenders: Ernest Akouassaga (Nantes, France), Georges Ambourouet (Makedonija Skopje, Macedonia), Moise Brou Apanga (Brest, France), Arsene do Marcolino (Les Herbiers, France), Bruno Ecuele Manga (Angers, France), Rodrigue Moudounga (Mangasport), Erwin Nguema (Coton Sport, Cameroon)
Midfielders: Alain Djissikadie (TP Mazembe Englebert, DR Congo), Thierry Issiemou (US Monastir, Tunisia), Paul Kessany (Istres, France), Bruno Zita Mbanangoye (Sivasspor, Turkey), Cedric Moubamba (Dhofar, Oman), Stephane Nguema (Stade Rennes, France), Jean Stephane Yessi Achi Aman (Mangasport)
Forwards: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (OSC Lille, France), Willy Aubameyang (Eupen, Belgium), Daniel Cousin (Hull City, England), Fabrice do Marcolino (Laval, France), Roguy Meye (Ankaraspor, Turkey), Eric Mouloungui (Nice, France)
Tunisia
Goalkeepers: Farouk Ben Mustapha (CA Bizerte), Aymen Mathlouthi (Etoile Sahel), Adel Nefzi (Club Africain)
Defenders: Yassine Mikari (Sochaux, France), Souhail Ben Radhia (Etoile Sahel), Khelil Chammam (Esperance), Radhouene Felhi (1860 Munich, Germany), Karim Haggui (Hannover 96, Germany), Bilel Ifa (Club Africain), Ammar Jemel (Etoile Sahel), Khaled Souissi (Club Africain)
Midfielders: Chaouki Ben Saada (Nice, France), Oussama Darragi (Esperance), Chadi Hammami (CS Sfaxien), Khaled Korbi (Esperance), Haithem Mrabet (CS Sfaxien), Mohamed Ali Nafkha (Etoile Sahel), Hocine Ragued (Slavia Prague, Czech Republic)
Forwards: Ahmed Akaichi (Etoile Sahel), Amine Chermiti (Al Ittihad Jeddah, Saudi Arabia), Zouheir Dhaouadi (Club Africain), Issam Jomaa (Racing Lens, France), Youssef Msakni (Esperance)
Zambia
Goalkeepers: Jacob Banda (Zesco United), Kalililo Kakonje (AmaZulu, South Africa), Kennedy Mweene (Free State Stars, South Africa)
Defenders: Dennis Banda (Green Buffaloes), Kampamba Chintu (AmaZulu, South Africa), Hichani Himoonde (Zesco United), Emmanuel Mbola (Pyunik Yerevan, Armenia), Joseph Musonda (Lamontville Golden Arrows, South Africa), Thomas Nyirenda (Zanaco)
Midfielders: Isaac Chansa (Helsingborg, Sweden), Noah Chivuta (Maritzburg United, South Africa), Rainford Kalaba (Uniao Leiria, Portugal), Francis Kasonde (Al Suwaiq, Oman), Felix Katongo (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Clifford Mulenga (Mpumalanga Black Aces, South Africa), William Njobvu (Hapoel Kiryat Shmone, Israel), Stophira Sunzu (Zanaco)
Forwards: James Chamanga (Dalian Shide, China), Christopher Katongo (Arminia Bielefeld, Germany), Emmanuel Mayuka (Maccabi Tel Aviv, Israel), Collins Mbesuma (Moroka Swallows, South Africa), Jacob Mulenga (FC Utrecht, Netherlands), Given Singuluma (TP Mazembe Englebert, DR Congo).
Big Steve from SA on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 10:37 AM
Mbesuma showed some promise in the Dube birds game aganist Wolfsburg even though the latter were just too strong for Birds. He showed some deft touches for the time he was on the field and more noticebly he is running a bit more he seems a lot lighter on his feet. There is definitely more energy in his game these days. He is not at his best and like most of us I just hope that will hapen one day but it is god to see him ake a god account of himself on the field even though the goals are still not coming in yet.
Sibs on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 11:06 AM
Hey Big Steve are you going to check out Saturdays friendly game ?
Mabbwana on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 12:24 PM
In the last game I watched in which Mbesuma played for the birds, I also thought he was much leaner. He seems to stil be able to hold up play quite wel and allow others around him to play with his defty touches like Steve puts it, but has lost the eye for goal. He hardly ever put himself in a goal scoring position.
Quite a tough call for HR.
Georgia Russia on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 12:35 PM
something has to be done as soon as possible on this site,afcon is round the corner and you guys need to sell yourself alot more.
Never on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 12:39 PM
Lets be serious, I think on paper Zambia is the weakest in the group.We will just hope for the best.
Vincent Numbwa on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 1:01 PM
Good to learn that Mbesuma’s workrate is getting better. For whaterver reason I have feeling that Zambia will pull through to the group and we need to have strikers who can deliver and hold the ball upfront to reduce pressure on mid and defenders so that they dont repeat school boys mistakes againist our oppenents.
Big Steve from SA on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 1:46 PM
I believe the game is behind closed doors or something. I was planning to take a flight to and back from Durban after the game but the whole closed door thing has put me off.
Big Steve from SA on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 2:21 PM
Yes I agree, one thing he seems to have lost is his ability to position himself in goal scoring spaces in the 18 yard box. It will be a very tough call for HR, he has three goal scoring strikers that dont have the ability to hold play very effectively and he has one striker who is able to hold play but cant really score. talk about having the best of both worlds but only allowed to select one.
Winza Sichali on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 2:22 PM
So who is the player of the decade bane. Clearly, Tana has had a slight edge over Mbesuma. from the votes so far, i think he has won. Zamfoot, can you please officially announce him as the winner otherwise we will go to the supreme court to ask them to compel you to announce !! Okay but on a serious note, voting has long since been closed.
Sibs on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 2:45 PM
No the one on Saturday against South Korea is not behind closed doors. The one with the 9jas in Durban is the one behind closed doors. I actually meant the Korean one cos the Nigerian for me is a bit far for me.
Ba Muzo on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 3:24 PM
Team of the decade debate rages on: Kennedy Mweene
Laughter Chilembe
Emmanuel Mbola
Moses Sichone
Elijah Tana
Andrew Sinkala
Chris Katongo (Clifford Mulenga if you want a
natural winger)
Gift Kampamba
Collins Mbesuma
Dennis Lota
Kalusha Bwalya (Captain)
Coach: Wedson Nyirenda Assistants: Patrick Phiri, George Lwandamina and Fighton Simukonda
Team doctor: Joseph Kabungo
Team Manager: Solly Pandor
Team Critic: myself (lol)
tino on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 3:46 PM
@Ba Muzo
nice line up Ba muzo. the Elijah Tana – Moses Sichone partership was deadly. i remember watching the mighty Kalampa hosting Nchnaga rangers on the last day of the premier league in 1998. The Rangers defense was rock solid not even the introduction of the great Bubble could break it down. he kept on boncing off Moses. rangers went on to back it with a lone goal by Harry Milanzi.
Jojo on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 4:08 PM
@Ba Muzo
Ba muzo what about joseph musonda?muzo made his debut for zambia in patrick phiri’s first game in charge as head coach,that was july 2002 in a cosafa game against mozambique and he has been in the team up to today,thats 8 years,as opposed to emmanuel mbola who has only been in the team for about a year,
Dont you also think the late nsofwa chaswe should also be mentioned when talking about our best players in the last 10 years,in that period he played a lot of games and scored a lot goals for zambia,at one time he was also our best player….
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 4:16 PM
@Mabbwana
Definately putting Chris and Kalu on the flanks playing the traditional 4-4-2. I really can’t think of a natural right sided winger who has captured my imagination. Watching HB at club level umwaiche is a good winger and Saku in CHAN aswell as Ignatius lwipa, but before that I don’t think we have had too many wingers to speak of from 2000-2010. Andrew Tembo comes to mind, but he didn’t play any for Zambia in that time period. Actually when he did play ba Andrew ba le teya bwino… so between Chris and Andrew Tembo. Freddy Mwila Jnr looked like he would have made that position his own, but that boy never blossomed.
Ba Muzo on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 4:18 PM
@Jojo
You are very right Jojo. Muzo should be in ahead of Mbola as it it a team of the decade. I regard Mbola highly but Muzo has been around for a long time. You will be amazed that I included the late Nsofwa ‘Miller’ Chaswe in a team of the decade I sent somewhere! Iwe you are a soccer guru pa C.B.
tino on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 5:02 PM
@Positive thinking ..aka Awe
The only Right Winger i can think of from my time is the late Freddie Mwila Junior,but hey we are looking at this decade.
Spaks on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 5:10 PM
Davis Phiri
Laughter Chilembe
Hilary Makasa
Moses Sichone
Elijah Tana
Gift Kampamba
Fred Mwila JNR
Isaac Chansa
Collins Mbesuma
Mwape Miti
Clifford Mulenga
Zima Ndola on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 5:48 PM
You can watch from huanism hill.No need to open the gates.Matero Hill Mudala.
Mabbwana on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 6:11 PM
Thats the problem we have had in the past decade, lack of quality wingers both on the left and right.
Freddy Mwila was good but I agree he never blossomed. Unfortunately the coaches we have had have favored the 4 – 3- 3 formation and ahvent given us exciting wingers.
Only Kalu went out of his way to find wingers who could play in his 4 – 4 – 2 formation. Remeber he brought in Justin Mwilima on the right flank ( I thought he was very exciting the few games he played), Noel Mwandila was also used then he also broought in the exciting new kids on the block to work on the wings Kalaba and Clifford.
From then on, Patrick Phiri went 4 3 3, same as HR.
I would play Muzo ahead of Laughter and leave Mbola to play left back. Muzo despite not itting the headlines has been amazing.. He played almost all of Kalu’s games in charge apart from the time he had accumulated two yellows. His consistency under PP was at times questionable, but he has lasted the time and I would give him the nod.
Ba Muzo on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 6:13 PM
Tino you are certainly right about Fred ‘Shom Shom’ Mwila Jnr. He was one of the best if you talk about natural right wingers.
Jojo on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 6:49 PM
Talking about wingers,were is chanda mwape?he played a lot of games on the left wing for zambia,
Anonymous on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 7:44 PM
Sibs Which stadium will they be playing in?? I think we can make an arrangement for Saturday.
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Tue, 5th Jan 2010 7:49 PM
@Mabbwana
@Ba Muzo
The formation changes kind of explain it. Pantu under PP Jacob Mulenga found himself on the right wing during some games.. its almost like Zambia stopped using natural wingers during PPs days and under HR we saw it happen ku CHAN and then gone again during the qualifiers. I really thought Freddie Mwila was going to be main stay mu national team, Mwandila aside from a goal or two at international level never impressed as a right winger. Abena Kalaba, Felix and even Chris don’t seem to be natural wingers which is why these guys are constantly cutting into the box rather than crossing the ball.
I also had a hard time choosing between Muzo and Laughter at first. But it is always a question of consistency and that was definately won by Muzo. Laughter was either really good or terrible. he was really good going forward, but lacked a little bit defensively.
Seen from afar on Wed, 6th Jan 2010 12:21 AM
@Positive thinking ..aka Awe
Even Muzo has had his ups and downs, but no complaints on recent form for him.
I think all Zambia’s wingers want to cut inside rather than take it to the line, i think it’s the way we like to play, but of course i agree we need to do it more and get good at crossing.
bola panshi on Wed, 6th Jan 2010 7:55 AM
thankx zamfoot i was almost bout 2 shoot! lol
Ba Muzo on Wed, 6th Jan 2010 8:23 AM
Incidentally Jojo I played on the same team with Dickson Chanda Mwape at Matero Boys’ Secondary School. We used to call him him ”Lusha.” Came from a footballing family. He went to Angola and that is the last I heard of him but will certainbly find out where he is. A great talented winger he was. Christiano Ronaldo like. He could also operate in the hole. Literally carried our school team and Lusaka Tigers on his shoulders.
Uncle Bobs on Wed, 6th Jan 2010 10:09 AM
Kalu gets it and no arguments about it. For me he was the real GENERAL and no one else! Are we sure Kalu is the all time goal scorer. Can someone itemise his 50 goals and games? Problem pa Zed guess work twapena as ama records takwaba. But Great Kalu is a true stalwart no doubt about it. Even at 40 he did it better than most players. Elyo ena tebola yamunyunshi!
dot com on Wed, 6th Jan 2010 12:15 PM
GREAT KALU…. IS THE MAN OF THE DECADE…period!