February 6, 2010
Is Lwandamina the unsung AFCON star?
by Augustine Mukoka, The Post Newspaper
SO Egypt are the African champions again? Not only once but in three successive editions. And that’s on a continent with 51 other countries.
Maybe five of the countries – Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Algeria, Nigeria and Cameroon – had exhausted their ammunition on World Cup campaigns.
The rest dipped their efforts in the well of honour but not as deep as the Pharaohs – a record seven titles, three of which are in succession since 2006.
And Zambia? The celebrations are too loud to ignore but the furthest our dear Chipolopolo could go was a quarterfinal loss to Nigeria, 5-4 on penalties.
Not to take anything away from Herve Renard’s team, they posted some good displays against Tunisia, Cameroon, Gabon and Nigeria.
Yet I think the team could have done much better than reflected considering the state of our opponents at the competition.
Tunisia fielded a youthful team reconstituted three months before the tournament, Cameroon has had a limping side with age naturally calling on most of its stars to phase out and Nigeria are at their lowest ebb in recent times.
African football legend Abedi Pele rightly observed that the level of competition at the 27th edition was not up to scratch.
Therefore, a full strength Zambian side playing some of its finest football in 14 years should have been among the best four – if not the winners.
Undoubtedly, there was very little hope for any meaningful showing by Zambia going into the Africa Cup of Nations, owing to a scrappy record during the qualifiers.
A little more of the Africa Cup performance is what was expected of Chipolopolo during the qualifiers and I’m sure we would have been talking of South Africa 2010 World Cup but Renard’s response will be; ‘Zambians think their team is the best in the world.’ No, that’s not an illusionary thought. Zambia has the potential to become the best in Africa. Look at how Chipolopolo with boys from humble leagues faired at the continental showpiece.
The belief the boys demonstrated was impressive, the verve astounding, the unity only befitting more than a quarterfinal exit.
Unfortunately, luck least manifests when highly expected and that’s how I sum up our outing to Angola although Renard wants us to believe he has delivered the extraordinary. No! Not as far as Zambia is concerned. He has added a good element to the team but nothing beyond what our history holds.
Most significant for Zambia is the importance to consolidate the youth structures considering the benefits as demonstrated by the current team.
If you scan through the 23-member team and take a look into the past junior national teams, you will know what I’m referring to.
And one man who sat out and proudly watched the team produce some sparks was Renard’s deputy – George Lwandamina.
Lwandmina’s contributions are unnoticed almost earning the nickname ‘cone-master’ but his footprints are visible in the performance of the team.
Skipper Christopher Katongo and his brother Felix’s character at national level was spotted after Lwandamina fondly known as ‘Chicken Geo’ tapped the duo from Forest Rangers into the Zambia Army side, Green Buffaloes.
Rainford Kalaba, Stopilla Sunzu, Emmanuel Mayuka, Hichani Himoonde, Dennis Banda, Clifford Mulenga, Jacob Banda, William Njobvu have all danced to Lwandamina’s fine-tuning tactics at youth level over the last six years.
The likes of Jacob Mulenga, Francis Kasonde, Isaac Chansa, Noah Chivuta and Collins Mbesuma including Christopher have traces of Peter Kaumba’s contribution at Under-23 level. They have now matured and Renard can swim in raving reviews as the best coach Zambia has ever engaged. Kalusha also takes the credit for Jacob and James Chamanga while Patrick Phiri apportions due cognition for the likes of Chintu Kampamba and Joseph Musonda. Renard ‘s discoveries in Emmanuel Mbola and Thomas Nyirenda are also good.
But its Lwandamina’s association with the youth structures, however weak they maybe, since 2004 that hugely influences today’s Chipolopolo if credit goes to coaches. And he is a worthy mention to their outing at the competition. He is my unsung star at the Africa Cup of Nations.
It is for this reason that I firmly believe in equipping local coaches by training them as well as providing sufficient exposure for our sport to develop.
Rest assured, they will not jump on a modest quarterfinal placing to market themselves at midnight to a ‘big’ African team in the midst of a tournament by crying out the loudest like Renard did.
I have known about Renard’s dream to coach a ‘big’ African team for sometime and I have no problems with such ambitions but not at the expense of Chipolopolo.
Renard should pause and ask himself if any of those big teams he is courting would have dared accepting his CV when he was in Ghana. In addition to that, it is also important for him to reflect on his abilities.
If he guided Malawi, Swaziland or Lesotho to the Africa Cup, will they have made the last eight? My hat will definitely be off to him as the African Jose Mourinho if what he did to Zambia was in Madagascar or Mauritius.
It reminds me of what a Ghanaian colleague once said; ‘Renard needs Zambia more than you need him.’ I will not be wrong to agree with him further.
Suffice to say, I understand how Renard’s excitement has became uncontrollable after a quarterfinal exit. It was his first time as head coach but rather a mediocre target for a country like Zambia.
Renard owes his little success so far to Zambia’s rich football talent and not vice versa. It will be good if he respected this great footballing nation.
Renard, Erick on Kalumiana Kalumiana
It’s not surprising that FAZ communications officer Erick Mwanza and Renard are still basking in the Africa Cup hangover to justify their continued jungle-like attacks on Post sports journalist Kalumiana Kalumiana during the Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.
Firstly, there is no justification in Erick’s decision to bar Kalumiama from covering Chipolopolo in Angola but he is obviously inspired by their boss Kalusha Bwalya. They all view the truth when laid bare to their face as a serious obstacle in their selfish ambitions.
My advise to Erick is to go back and consult his job description to get a better understanding about it, otherwise he is defeating the purpose of having a communications officer at Football House. Additionally, telling the truth will not harm Erick but instead help him execute his duties professionally.
But trusting Erick will tell the truth is equivalent to testing the depth of the river with your feet. I have spoken to a number of players that were in Angola about the meeting Erick is claiming resolved Kalumiana should not be around the Zambia hotel. The feedback I get is contrary to Erick’s statements. It’s not strange.
It’s a surprise change from Renard that his attacks are not at those who critisiced him and his team during the qualifiers but Kalumiana alone.
I think the Frenchman is applying double-standards and giving us versions that suit him.
In Benguela, he directed his venom at those that had criticised him and the team in the presence of Xavier Manchinshi (Times of Zambia), Robinson Kunda (Zambia Daily Mail) and the international media.
He said he was hitting back at his perceived critics after the team qualified to the quarterfinals but at Football House on Wednesday, it was one journalist. Which version of Renard’s statement should we believe – Benguela or Football House?
Monsieur Renard, no Zambian, journalists inclusive will tolerate mediocre performance with defeats from non-entities like Zanzibar unless they covered themselves in the veil of pretence.
I actually attempted to contact Renard on his mobile to clarify a few points I found misleading about Kalumiana at his press briefing.
He didn’t respond and reasons are best, rightfully so, known to himself.
That said, I wish to remind Renard that he has been one of the least criticised coaches in Zambia. Failure to nurse the quarterfinal hangover may be understandable today, but even the CHAN bronze was forgotten after Zanzibar coupled Chipolopolo’s misery with a lame Afcon record last year.
Renard has shown very little allegiance to Chipolopolo after Afcon and my view is that he categorically states his future.
The Frenchman must also be reminded that FAZ president Kalusha Bwalya is not Zambian football or vice versa as he mistakenly wants to think.
Little wonder he has no respect for other executive committee members like vice-president Emmanuel Munaile because only Kalusha excavated him from the physical education realm.
Renard was employed by FAZ, not Kalusha alone and is answerable to the entire executive committee. Like Renard and many others, I didn’t agree with Munaile and the technical committee on shaking up the technical bench prior to the Africa Cup of Nations but that does not warrant the uncharacteristic disrespect the Frenchman is subjecting FAZ officials to.
Sadly, this is a self-created problem that mushrooms when an individual is built into some sort of a cult by fellow elected FAZ members.
And Renard is capitalising on it clearly displaying their role as inconsequential to the equation when they are supposed to be key in the management of the game. Take it as a lesson gentlemen and ladies.
Conduct yourself as the gentleman I have thought you are Mr Renard since coming to Zambia instead of dancing to the deranged tune of Football House.
Many thanks to Kalumiana for sitting in perfectly well as I laid back for three weeks to fully concentrate on the action from Angola.
111 Comments on "Zambia’s unsung Afcon star"
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mphatso on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 3:02 PM
What an article….i must re-read it before making a comment..phew!!!!!!!
Jimmy on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 4:36 PM
Augustine Mukoka, so emotions are still making you find pen and paper. It is very true that Lwandamina is an unsang hero, thank you for bringing it out. But your writing just drastically changes to focus HR. Would have been a great articale though. My opinion.
Steven on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 5:05 PM
What exactly is the purpose of this article? If you read the headline, you would think it would be praising Chicken George, and maybe even mentioning him as a possible successor for HR, but after a little praise it becomes another silly condemnation of HR and his ambitions. When will we focus on the positive thing pa Zambia kanshi? Same old vima issues, we are tired.
Jimmy on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 6:07 PM
Exactly my argument Steven.
Asilikale on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 6:24 PM
Lol wrong headline bt gud msg evntho its all a repeat of what others have been bloggng.
For sure a quarter final waz Renard cereblation not for Zambias who had eyes set on south africa 2010.
The game in mid tells alot about under20 world cup canada,i see the hand of George chicken in chipolopolo mid the only comfusion in mid field is, ichi chi Chris katongo.
Anonymous on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 8:25 PM
Please can someone help me out here – why are all our players heading to TP Mazempe. I was under the impression that Hichani and Sunzu would be better off in Europe where they can be nurtured into world class players.
nizi on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 8:33 PM
Augustine mukoka! you are very emotional yet correct,,,i only hope its in good faith, i hope you are not bullying just people because you are from the most powerful paper in the country,,the post
nizi on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 8:40 PM
Mwila speaks on low profile transfers
By Sydney Mungala
Sat 06 Feb. 2010, 04:00 CAT [305 Reads, 0 Comment(s)] Text size Print
FORMER national team coach Fred Mwila has said it was wishful thinking to expect Zambian players to sign for high profile teams on account of good performances in two games.
Commenting on Zambian players’ latest signings at the close team. If we keep this kind of pace maybe we are of the transfer window on February 1, Mwila said the teams the players signed for equated the standards of the country’s sport.
“All the scouts from big teams were watching the Africa Cup and at the end got the players they wanted. So it is wishful thinking to expect our players to sign for teams like Manchester United after only one game, it takes more than that,” he said.
Mwila said a tournament like the Africa Cup of Nations only accelerated the chances of being signed on.
“Look at what has been happening to our football and then tune your expectations to that. Tournaments are not leagues, they are a one off event,” he said.
Mwila, however, attributed climatic conditions as one of the reasons that was slowing down Zambian players trekking to Europe.
“The weather sometimes makes it difficult for them to fit in and they end up coming back,” he said.
At the close of the transfer window on last Sunday, Zambian midfielder Rainford signed for Egyptian giants Zamalek after a spell in Portugal. During the same period midfielder Isaac Chansa rejoined Orlando Pirates from Swedish top team Helsinborg, Felix Katongo extended his stay at Mamelodi Sundowns and Stophira Sunzu signed for TP Mazembe in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Seen from afar on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 8:55 PM
I agree entirely with this article!
We don’t want to hear we are not ready, we want to hear HOW we are going to be ready! We made an oath to qualify for the World Cup some 17 years ago and longer, every Zambia coach has to acknowledge that otherwise they are in the wrong job. There’s a reason we seek the WC and nothing else and it’s not because “we think we are the best in the wrold”…
George has been awful quiet these last two years, but has had huge hand as have other people. The media in Angola are led to believe it’s all because of HR!?!
Anyway, Amodou is no longer with Nigeria, i can’t see Egypt parting with Shehata even for a second… Bruno Metsu is apparently being talked to. Surely Nigeria would pick him over HR any day.
Anonymous on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 9:03 PM
Hichani and Sunzu at TP MAZEMBE! Is that a good move?
Sibs on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 9:17 PM
Steven and Jimmy i wouldn’t agree with you more. Thats all i can say on this article.
Asilikale on Sat, 6th Feb 2010 9:48 PM
Even kalaba to Zamalek is that.Pa zed,maybe these players dnt consult,coz evn Renard was surprised to hear of kalaba move.
kayula on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 1:07 AM
I agree with you man, the focus should have been on George. There is nothing special about HR, time to move forward
kayula on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 1:08 AM
@Jimmy
agree with you man, the focus should have been on George. There is nothing special about HR, time to move forward
Kk11 on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 6:15 AM
Another post reporter with an axe to grind with Renard and Kalusha. The title is very misleading because at the end of the day this more about Renard than George. The same players he attributes to George were there 2 years ago, where was the praise for George then? This is just another attempt by a disgruntled reporter settling scores with Renard. What a great football nation we are having not won anything major for 14 years, unless u consider regional tournaments such as CECAFA or COSAFA after beating powerhouses like Eritrea and Botswana. Augustine please brother put the axe away and write or look into something worth while.
Kk11 on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 6:26 AM
@Seen from afar
U agree with this article? The smallness of some your thinking is breathtaking. Personal animosty clouds your judgement, I only hope u are not in a position of influence. Any anti Renard tirade is instantly endorsed by you.
Man ceasor on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 6:33 AM
we wl c wat dis unsung star wl do @kabwe warriors since he failed wt gbfc.
Matafwali on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 8:26 AM
The author might have made some points and supported them in the second part of his article but the title and the first part of the article just to not go along with the second part. His dig at HR takes on a different direction from what one is led to believe the article is all about. The part about Erick Mwanza and Renard should have been under a different discussion. It certainly takes totally away from whatever little recognition was being given to Lwandamina.
Simms mo on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 9:10 AM
These articles are good and are opinions of indivuals who write.They,in no doubt, assist people to understand issues and digest effectively.This country is a great footballing nation.Some of us will recall at mogadishu stadium in kitwe where most of the talented nkana stars used to come from.We all played football unlike these days.
We can win african cup if we organise ourselves even with lwandamina. Look at what malawi are doing.It is under local man and have changed very much.What tacticts did we see in our coach!!!
Bolla Pansi on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 10:50 AM
This article makes sad reading.Yes, the author must put away his axe.Obviously he is a poor victim of PHD syndrome and desperately needs the support of de zamfoot community.
HR and Erick won de first round.They lost and cant stomach it.
Its cos of the mentality displayed in this article that futbol in zed has taken 14yrs to c a qrt final berth.
They claim zed is a big team nd yet we ve never won de Afcon or bn to the WC.
As 4 Geo,de praise is 2 little and 2 late.Munaile nd Co. still want to get rid of him
Steven on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 2:39 PM
Sorry guys, but this has to be repeated, we are NOT a great footballing nation. This delusional behavior has to stop if we are truly going to become great. We have NEVER won the AFCON and never been to the WC, and to be considered great we HAVE to do at least one of those things. Angola and SA got to the WC before us, don’t forget that. Great nations are able to host tournaments, we have failed. Until we get our house in order, we are fooling ourselves. Lets be serious, improve our facilities, expose our players, and win some games.
Bolla Pansi on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 4:05 PM
@Steven
Thank you.Lets not listen to chaps like Mukoka.
Lets accept.We re NOT a great futbol nation.We have to work hard.
Post journos went to Angola and tried to antagonise our team with unpatriotic reporting.
Now,on this blog Mukoka embarasses George wit a pathetic piece of writing.
Seen from afar on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 5:18 PM
@Kk11
I’m not anti-Renard!!! I will support him if he comes on-side about a few things, if he shows he understands the detrimental effect of some of his actions and some of his views and also promises to not repeat them, the reasons why people take exception to those things. Does he know, do you know?
Because we are now investing in the future, if everyone is happy that means they are happy to repeat the mistakes, repeat the failures and even allow them to become worse. I am not happy we do that! HR might think this is small Africa with small capabilities and we anger him we show character and try and prove otherwise. A journalist presents and valid argument and cause for thought and people deem it anarchic. People don’t avoid the debate in the developed world, they seek it. HR should be honored we are showing our seriousness towards our/his task.
Kk11 on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 7:16 PM
@Seen from afar
Renard has to promise you something for your support?? He has to abadon his view and look at things the way u see them for u to come around and support him?? You are not anti Renard but you don’t support him?? Conditions for ur support and you are??? The thing I have noticed here from the anti Renard corner here on the blog and in the media at large is a tinge of racism. It’s this pride thing we have cause we are enlightened so we feel it incumbent on ourselves to prove to the white man that we are capable or not stupid. We take any critical analysis from the white man as a afront to us and we set out to settle scores either through cheap shots or just simply out right condemnation. Renard has said a few things that are unsettling but nothing disparraging in my views. We are not a big football nation Anymore!! 14 years ago we matterd, never won anything now thanks to Renard and his bench we matter. Over the past 16 months you can not discount what Renard has contributed to football, especially the national team. To take a bunch of bench warmers, young stars, emerging superstars and a few ageing average players to within missed PK of the semi finals is a remarkable job. notice how the team for the most part is behind the coach, Clifford Mulenga is singing the virtues of fighting for first team action even after he was on the bench?!! Issac chansa has not said anything negative yet about Renard, goes to show u the unity in the team regardless of pedigree. I know I digraced a little here but my point is we need continuity, accept reality and criticsm all the while having a honest and civil debate about our football and it’s direction. Petty conditons for support to garner ones support or ludicrous statements defeat the purpose of having a proper discourse. The claims of anarchy by u brother are witness to my stament of ludicrous statements.
Seen from afar on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 8:20 PM
Brother KK11, Don’t call me out for using the word anarchic if you are going to say this has something do with racism. Follow my arguments closely, because you are trying to put me in a confusing box of the people who say things against Renard. In turn i won’t put you in category of people that use PHD as an insult.
Go back two years ago and read my comments pre Zamfoot, on Lusaka Times during Afcon, after and all throughout. I describe the coach that we should sign to bring us success and MY description is the description of Herve Renard before we even heard his name. All the successful things you describe about HR now, I described them when we were furiously discussing what to do next. Ask our good fellow blogger Sibs about that time… The only thing Kalu got wrong, was that i said we should sign a Dutch man or Scandinavian or maybe an Englishman, i specifically say not a Frenchman. Whilst you think this gives you ammunition to call me racist, i said this for a reason and that reason is because they are normally hot headed and a bit arrogant with many exceptions of course… That’s beside the point, you are saying i was right for what i said then (i promise you i’m telling the truth), so what makes you think i’m wrong now about the next two years?
There is something wrong with HR’s attitude, i’m concerned if allowed to continue, it will jeopardise our chances! I love football, but most of all i love Zambian football. If i see there is something we can help by supporting or opposing, i will comment, i won’t sit idle.
Kk11 on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 9:14 PM
You can put me on any box you want it does not bother me any, I simply call it how I see it. How can u b for something before u were against it? Are you for Renard or not? Simple question? As for arrogance I believe u need a certain amount of this to be successful. I am pretty sure Jose Mourinho is pretty arrogant and last I checked he was neither Dutch nor English. We are all arrogant me and u included, but at some point we need to step back take stock of our statements and really ask ourselves if we are being consistent and honest. My only confusion and dissapointment is that there is this drive to discredit and belittle the Frenchman by a certain few, and when u look at their arguments and reasons they are silly at best. Look we can agree to disagree fine, I wish u no harm just as I am sure u wish me none. I just don’t agree with they way u have attacked Renard because I think he has done more good than harm. People like the post author have an axe to grind and when you wholehertedly endorse their sentiments then an independent observer would believe u are one in the same. You are passionate like all on this blog, but I think u have let emotions get ahead of your clear headed judgement. You have taken a sip from the poisoned chalice of the post sports writers. This does not mean I think any less of you, ur contributions on this blog are welcome and worthy I just hope that you think less with your heart when you write.
Lovely Nalishiwa on Sun, 7th Feb 2010 9:23 PM
This Mukuka has personal issues. Good headline but swing to another totally defferent issue. Nonsence!!!!!!
Seen from afar on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 12:33 AM
This discussion on HR maybe rendered insignificant if he doesn’t want to stay. Anyway here goes.
I don’t think the Post reporters have been at all unreasonable despite being consistently persecuted by FAZ, with exception of the insults in the article Renard’s Reaction.
HR has moved around the world like a pinball, but now he has the opportunity of a lifetime and he’s already got his foot in the door and has already endured the hardest trials. So now rather throwing it all the way, he has to reside himself to Zambia for the 4 years or just continue on his travels. His mind can’t go wondering, it’s got to be here and it’s got to be on the task of seeing our time be a reality. It’s possible, not because it’s a born right, because we can and will earn it. Like Nigeria in 94 and Senegal in 02, and Egypt in 04, we shall take it. Why are ambitions limited to taking a side that has already been to the WC to go again, if you say you are VERY ambitious take a side that’s never been! If he sets out the target and he believes we can, then i have no reason not to support him! If he isn’t sure and can’t commit to the full 4 years then it’s obviously not best… That’s the way it is now.
I think HR let himself down when he hit back at The Post at CAN in such a big way, that and the way he advertised himself disappointed allot of people. It’s not right for him jump above his station like that…
Now for another issue!!!
HR used the words, “football family” in the press briefing the other day. Today Eric Mwansa uses it and is accusing Simataa Simataa of going against the “family” because he spoke his mind. First we have the FA President physically assaulting a journalist, then the national coach openly verbally threatens another journalist, then Munale announces he’s going “sort out” a member of his own “family” for saying something of public interest.
There’s no need for all this mess, we’ve got boys that can play and everything is looking up, there is really NO NEED! Don’t be fooled people, read for yourself what is going on, things are looking up and what is going to happen next, one day we are going to wake up and realize we are being ruled by tyrants? We won’t have the best people working, we’ll only have those yes-men that are in the family?
And all because of what? Because our leaders feel threatened by constructive criticism? RB said criticism is good, take heed people, that comes from the top!
Anonymous on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 7:34 AM
FOOTBALL administrator Simataa Simataa yesterday cautioned FAZ against schemes to suppress his contribution to the development of sport in the country.
Commenting on FAZ communications officer Erick Mwanza’s statement that the Amakumbi football club proprietor would be subjected to disciplinary action, Simataa said he took great exception to statements aimed at maligning his character.
On Saturday, Mwanza said on a Qfm Soccer Chat radio programme that Simataa would be subjected to disciplinary action for issuing what he termed “unwarranted public remarks against FAZ.”
But Simataa yesterday said he was saddened to learn through the press how the FAZ constitution was only applicable to his comments on Zambian football.
He said it would also be interesting to know whether disciplinary action is being taken for the praises he showered on FAZ.
Simataa said he was further saddened that Mwanza accused him of making unsubstantiated remarks.
“If it is the corruption at FAZ, does he want me to prove it?” he asked.
Simataa said he was never an advocate of unsubstantiated comments and was ready to defend anything he said publicly.
“We don’t have to go far. I sat in wonder after Mwanza’s statement.
“What if I’m the one who was selling complimentary World Cup tickets in 2006 in Germany? What if I’m the one who forged Emmanuel Mayuka’s signature in his transfer to Israel? What if I was the one who physically abused a journalist in South Africa? Imagine what would have happened to me,” he said.
Simataa warned FAZ to be careful in the manner they conducted administrative issues with regards to the constitution.
“And what if I was the one who owned a club, or served as a club official and was an employee of FAZ? What if I’m the one who obtained a job for forging a certificate or maybe what if I’m the one who forged my superior’s signature in my previous job and was fired but I’m working at FAZ, where will I be today?” he asked.
Simataa said he was at pains to understand what constitution FAZ was adhering to.
“Imagine if I was the one who bungled the London trip. Can you imagine if I was the one who travelled to Iran to collect match appearance fees without asking that Iran federation to remit through bank process for audit purpose, or imagine if I was the general secretary contrary to the FAZ constitution or one of those who appointed him general secretary contrary to the rules,” he added.
Simataa said he had a lot of information about activities at Football House which was unsubstantiated but did not discuss it in public.
“Let them keep quiet if they can’t respond to my comments instead of trying to malign my character,” he advised. “They say don’t throw stones if you leave in a glass house.”
Simataa said corruption in FAZ was real and it was not the first time he had spoken about it.
“I have information how hotel bills for the councillors who travelled for elections were settled using the national team by FAZ. You don’t have to go very far, just get to these hotels and lodges,” he said.
Simataa wondered if Mwanza had taken time to listen to his discussion on Hot fm last week before issuing threats to gag him.
“I have defended the FAZ president at a lot of public fora when people have poured scorn on him being based in South Africa and running the association, I have praised the Republican President Rupiah Banda for his fundraising initiative for the national team, I defended Herve Renard from being sacked when some of them wanted that. Is this what they are gagging me for?” he asked.
Simataa advised FAZ officials to apologise for setting a mediocre target at the last Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.
“Rather than FAZ pre-occupying themselves with me, they should be drafting an apology to the Zambian people and President Rupiah Banda in particular for going to the Africa Cup of Nations with no intentions of winning it. That was gross misconduct and a useless use of public resources because the President told them to go and win but they set a target for quarterfinal,” said Simataa.
isaac malukutu on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 8:53 AM
@Anonymous
Looking at the January transfer window which is very short you dont expect players to go to Europe.I think for now its a good move because they will be busy in the Champions league, all they need is consistency.
Uncle Bobs on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 9:40 AM
Our country has removed the words integrity and ethics from its vocabulary. We need men of integrity running public offices. How can a convict be expected to draft our constitution at NCC, how can someone that forged a boss’s signature and was fired at his former workplace be expected to run our football and set eyes on the ball? These are issues we need to address before we graduate from being happy with mediocrity. Gents whether Simataa has issues to grind or not, he has raised pertinent issues that people should own up and clean up failure to which posterity will judge us wrongly. THE BANDWIDTH OF BEING SUCCESSFUL IS INTERGRITY. It should not be about who is mentioned (which we seem to be good at) as even Simataa himself if he’s wrong, we should voice out. Let’s not institutionalise MEDIOCRITY, THEFT and LACK OF SHAME.
Big Steve from SA on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 10:12 AM
Looks like Simata has some very damning information on the under the table dealings at FAZ. Eish if this is true then we are even worse off than we originally thought with regards to this administration.
Off soccer would like to congratulate Lukondo for putting our country on the map.
We win everything but football in Zambia. Seems we only win on the entertainment side, maybe we should switch focus Lol.
Big Steve from SA on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 11:10 AM
The TP Mazembe coach is talking of just having signed four players from Zambia. Apart from Hichani who are the rest??
Jojo on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 11:18 AM
Yet another anti-renard,anti-FAZ article,
If simataa simataa thinks FAZ are not doing anything,instead of attacking them in the media he should maybe consider challenging kalu for the FAZ presidency,
Man ceasor on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 11:31 AM
renard is goin 4a 2weeks leave.i think dis is gud 4Him,let him go & rest.thanks renard.
Goddy on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 12:21 PM
@Big Steve from SA
The lads going to TP Mazembe are H. Himoonde, the Sunzu brothers and Sebastian Mwansa.
Scribe on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 12:42 PM
Goddy.
Its just Stophila going to T.p. Felix is with another team. I think Lumpopo or wateva its kod
Scribe on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 12:45 PM
Ofcourse with HH, Given n Sebastian
ROK on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 1:22 PM
Gentlemen, what about introducing a new topic altogether-Suggestions on the way forward which we can debate and agree. All the developmental ideas can be assembled together and tabled before our colleagues at Football House. This should be from Angola 2010 to Gabon 2012 and Brazil 2014. Don’t you think presenting our collective ideas on what to do in order to take our game to greater heights would be more important that discussing personalities or events which have already passed? We can appoint one of us to be compiling our ideas. What do the others say on this idea?
Anonymous on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 1:25 PM
Scribe were did you get that infor that Katongo is in congo, please next time try to give info that is accurate not based on hear says, kick.com confirmed the return of Felix katongo to sundowns.
Katongo back at Sundowns
Katongo back at Sundowns
Posted: 2010-02-05 14:24
Mamelodi Sundowns’ aspirations of winning the Absa Premiership title have been boosted by the return of midfielder Felix Katongo from Zambia yesterday.
Katongo’s return to the Brazilians has dispelled fears that the Zambian international had gone Awol as he did not return immediately back to Chloorkop after the Africa Cup of Nations that was held in Angola.
Speaking to KickOff.com, the former Jomo Cosmos midfielder says he was happy to be back with the Brazilians and expressed commitment to continue to fight his way into the club’s starting line-up.
“I had a few problems that I needed to sort out back home in Zambia but now I am back in South Africa and started training with Sundowns today.
“Even though I have not been playing regularly at Sundowns, I am happy at the club and will continue to fight for my place in the starting line-up,” says Katongo.
Big Steve from SA on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 1:40 PM
Thanx for the clarity gents I gather it is Stoppila, Hichhani, Sebatian and Given though from his tone he sounds as thugh he is talking of having just signed the players. I’m not sure given would fall in that category.
1 vinco on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 1:57 PM
lets spend the money in zambia and continue the work of developing the country. If the expatriate coach feel Zambia is a small team let him leave the small team in Zambia. We have enough coaches to our selves. You don’t say that a Zambian coach can not perform. We almost got the Africa cup with a zambian coach. Fred mwila is one.
For me coach Renard achieved his wishes and dreams,But that’s not the Zambia Standard am sorry. This achievement is only sweet to him, though we can’t deny the fact that we reached the quarter finals after so many years. The coach mind you is not just work but developing his CV, through letting as low after we Have achieved so much in the past.
You will agree with me that zambia is feared by not only EGYPT but most African countries. Am sure even the Pharaohs want Zambia not to reach the Finals…………………
Big Steve from SA on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 1:57 PM
That is a good idea
1 vinco on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 1:59 PM
the Coach should change his spirit towards the Zambian team. You know even the bible says there is power in the WORD. Thus, as the coach said so it went. Come on coach
1 vinco on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 2:04 PM
ROK :Gentlemen, what about introducing a new topic altogether-Suggestions on the way forward which we can debate and agree. All the developmental ideas can be assembled together and tabled before our colleagues at Football House. This should be from Angola 2010 to Gabon 2012 and Brazil 2014. Don’t you think presenting our collective ideas on what to do in order to take our game to greater heights would be more important that discussing personalities or events which have already passed? We can appoint one of us to be compiling our ideas. What do the others say on this idea?
I have just given one, that we view ourselves as giants not underdogs and thus we shall achieve. I believe every coach is building his team and so it should for us. The Afcon 2010 was a litmus test. Now that we Know where we are lets go ahead of others by starting our preps now.
Winza Sichali on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 2:12 PM
When you look at this list, i think Herve Renard was punching above his weight !
Egypt coach Hassan Shehata enters Nigeria coaching race
By Oluwashina Okeleji
BBC Sport
Hassan Shehata is one of the favourites on the Nigeria shortlist
Egypt coach Hassan Shehata has been added to the short-list of five candidates hoping to become the new coach of Nigeria’s national team.
On Friday the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced the demotion of Super Eagles coach Shaibu Amodu.
He’ll now oversee the home-based Nigeria team who will take part in the African Nations Championship.
Dutchman Guus Hiddink, currently coach of Russia, is also on a shortlist of preferred candidates to replace Amodu.
Other names in the frame include Louis Van Gaal, former England caretaker manager Peter Taylor, Bruno Metsu, who coached Senegal to the 2002 World Cup quarter-finals, and Ratomir Dujkovic, Ghana’s coach at the last World Cup in Germany.
“Hassan Shehata was actually in the original short-list of coaches that was drawn up by the committee,” NFF media officer Ademola Olajire told BBC Sport.
“Six coaches are on the list and the Egypt coach is the sixth man.
“The technical committee of the federation has been mandated to screen and recommend a final short-list of three possible candidates.
“But most importantly, they have been instructed to announce a new coach for the Super Eagles by the end of the month.”
Shehata, however, is an interesting new name in the mix, considering the fact that he remains the head coach of Egypt.
Barely a day after leading Egypt to their third successive Africa Cup of Nations title he claimed he had been offered the post on a temporary basis.
The 60-year-old added that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had approached both he and the Egyptian FA, but emphasised that the ultimate decision lay with his employers.
Egypt themselves narrowly missed out on a place at the World Cup after losing out to rivals Algeria in a play-off in Sudan in November.
Hassan Shehata is favoured alongside Ratomir Dujkovic to take over Amodu whose team’s style of play, tactics and key decision-making were all questioned during the Africa Cup of Nations.
Big Steve from SA on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 2:20 PM
@Winza Sichali
I agree, I also thought it would have been a mighty long shot if HR thought he could make the shortlist. Look at the names shortlisted, all time tested veterans with record pedigree of note. In my opinion it would be foolish of Nigeria to hire HR if they can afford the salary of a coach like Guus Hiddink. I dont think Guus will come to africa though, he showed a lot of hesitation when South Africa were courting him and besides way too many premiership teams are stil after his signature which is by far much more money and C.V recognition than coming to Africa.
Never on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 2:30 PM
I like the post newspaper, however, if the post is to be a leader in sports reporting they need to differentiate sport reporting from politics reporting.At the moment daily mail is the best paper when it comes to sports reporting because the post handles sport stories as though they are talking about these selfish politicians(parasites) of ours.
Never on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 2:37 PM
Simataa enjoys it whenever FAZ makes a mistake.
DaMwiinger on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 2:38 PM
I did something like that already but Zamfoot haven’t published it. Maybe we just like complaining and end of story. I am slowly losing my faith in Zamfoot if truth be told
Zed # 1 on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 2:56 PM
The short listing by Nigeria is a true manfestation of how lowly renard is placed in footbal, when he come from Angola talking like the naija job was his. We have a famous African proverb” dont shit in your hut if you dont know where your going”. I bet its Zambia’s turn to pick a better coach. those who are calling for HR to stay kindly give me 2 lists of: 1) his successes 2) the other of his failures in Zambian football. Gents lets be objective, I refuse to call my country a poor footbal nation. Why were commentetors at AFCON saying Zambia is geting back to its potential, because they who we are and what we can achieve. All of you calling HR a good coach & Zambia a poor football nation are nothing but full of mediocracy. What a shame.
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:07 PM
@Zed # 1
Good points
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:09 PM
Lwandamina can do the job with the help of Janza
Sibs on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:09 PM
Anonymous the Felix scribe is talking of here is Felix Sunzu the elder brother to Stophila not Felix Katongo.
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:10 PM
Just pay “Chicken G” 15,000 dollars and you will see the results
Bolla Pansi on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:11 PM
@ROK
Ya its true.Zamfoot dabates are mere academic exercises.In Zed we talk too much and are lazy.
Lets put our heads together and gather points for action this year.We need action oriented stories as opposed to’big mouth’competition stories.ACTION PLEASE.
Seen from afar on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:24 PM
At the end of the day! We are all Zambians and have Zambia’s interest at heart. FAZ, Kalu, Eric Mwansa and co, don’t feel scared, we will support you because we want to see development , continuity and we want to see success. But you must not get yourself embroiled in unfruitful issues, twisting the truth, condemnation for no good reason!
We want to support you FAZ, but you are only making it hard for yourself. There are issues that overspilled from two years back and now is the time we resolve them once and for all, because there is no need to fight over football, there is no need to tarnish everybody in a small country, no need to start taking an eye for an eye. Which eyes are going to watch the ball then? FAZ you are in control and it’s you calling the shots!!! We will support you, now assert towards the good of the game, embrace democracy and settle this mess once and for all. Let us have HARMONY and by the time WC let’s be fully ready to go the next step!
I don’t know anyone from The Post, i don’t know Simataa or anyone, but FAZ, HR you may think some of these people are your worst enemy, they are not, all these different people are your best friend!
@DaMwiinger
You are free to post anything you like on Zamfoot, if you have written something, you can post it as a comment and the many readers will give it the credit it deserves. Cheers.
Sibs on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:26 PM
Who is the most qualified Zambian Coach and what Coaching qualification/ License does he have?
Seen from afar on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:31 PM
@Bolla Pansi
Can i ask you a question? You can gather all points you want, who is going to get through to FAZ?
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:33 PM
@Sibs
We have had people who had never coached even a club in Zambia appointed and paid billions with no results. Kalu was getting around 8 to 10 thousand US dollars for doing nothing. He did not even have a record
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:38 PM
Give the Zambian coaching job to Lwandamina under the same conditions as those of HR and you will see
Zed # 1 on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 3:47 PM
i thought debating issues is the best way of moving foward. If we all agread on something thats when action can be taken. Just like the proces in parliament thougth we lack the mandate. But surely advocate for rightful thinking. Lets encourage Zamfoot to share some great ideas from here with FAZ through some fora…. But believe you me even Kalu reads these blogs its hard to ignore a lot of voices.
Winza Sichali on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 4:05 PM
I agree with you 100% Never. I equally get the Post every day, but i know that their sports reporting is below par. I equally rate the Daily mail as No: 1 in terms of sports. The post report about local league games on Monday ! They will try to freshen up the stories by adding an angle of controversy, but hey, its still late. Their reports at AFCON were late, but their quest for controversy is what makes them lose the plot. I think there is great room for improvement on their back page. I think i also expect a bit of loyalty from them. When the national team is at war, fighting tooth and nail in the jungles of Angola – is that the time to rabble rouse ? cant the reportage be in a fashion of motivating the boys and spurrring them to reach even higher height ? We should learn a thing or two about patriotism from the British Press. They protect their own. Captain Fantastic ( Steven Gerrard ) can box DJs in a pub ( foolish thing to do ), but the British press will not give him a push to fall overboard when there is a crucial world cup qualifier in sight .
chamz on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 4:20 PM
Post reporters must not just become the news themselves-that is where the problem is, the want to fight and cover the story, CAF bans journalists fron hotels, they go in and when they are chased, they write a story.
DaMwiinger on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 4:35 PM
@Seen from afar
It is quite a lengthy paper for it to be just a comment-four pages. I think I have just resolved to just do my part with more serious people instead of empty debates that don’t lead to anything. Happy debating fellas
Seen from afar on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 5:02 PM
@DaMwiinger
Maybe that is the reason Zamfoot won’t publish it, but i wouldn’t be quick to say it’s because they don’t agree or something, as they have shown they publish most topics…
I wish you luck DaMwiinger, i’ve read your comments and i think you are smart guy who form his arguments with good consideration. I hope you find a worthy platform to state your case or air your views.
Man ceasor on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 5:15 PM
can some one tel me wat chicken geroge has achieved in terms of zambian football.
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 5:26 PM
This article started off nicely enough, but then fell into the whole Renard/FAZ Vs Post. It would be nice to see some objective journalism on the part of the post for once. That aside;
Everybody on this blog knows I am supporter of HR, but I have to admit disappointment in the way he handled himself after Zambia was knocked out. The whole “I want to go somehwere else” talks shows somewat a lack of commitment to the team on his part. I have seen many coaches who show up at teams and they never talk down their teams or talk about their ambitions of being somewhere else. I can’t fault his ambitiousness, which I think Zambian coaches may need more of.
I am however a fan of consistency. I am a firm believer in that we cannot expect a power house to be built in a day. Take for example Clemens Westerhoff, he coached the Super Eagles consisting mainly of local stars in the 1990 AFCON, they came 3rd, in 1992 with Westerhoff still in charge they were knocked out by Ghana in the qtr finals, in ’94 they not only qualified for the WC, but also won AFCON. The same local boys by then were featuring in leagues all over Europe. Look at Egypt and Shehata, these are the fruits of consistency.
Our coaches on average have each lasted about 2yrs. Which is honestly not long enough to build a formidable team, unless you walk in on some really exceptional talent. The talent is there in Zambia, but the essential commodity is time required to build and admin foresight. So for the sake of development, and narturing the talent… we should stick with HR and his technical bench allow the team to grow and get better. As for FAZ, they should really ask HR if he is committed to Zambia, and he should conduct himself as such.
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 5:32 PM
Benin have sacked their entire coaching and playing staff following last month’s Africa Cup of Nations.
In a statement, the country’s football association cited indiscipline and unpatriotism in Angola as the reason for dissolution of the national team.
The Squirrels finished third in Group C with a solitary point after losing to Nigeria and Egypt and a draw with Mozambique.
Benin were led in Angola by French coach Michel Dussuyer.
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 5:34 PM
He took the under/20 to the world Cup and reached the second round. HR failed Vs under20 Egypt in group stages, due to his target issue but he is still your coach
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 5:41 PM
@Positive thinking ..aka Awe
Awe I like your contributions, but I have a different view on certain issues. I do not agree with the notion that our coaches are average cause if given ama conditions that are like those of ama learner drivers like HR, what do you think will come out. local coaches are paid bones meat and yet we expect steak in terms of results, takwaba
The Mwine on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 5:47 PM
We ar bak in the Lab, now i dont know wat u guys wat to come up with after afcon, coz yo mixture looks like poison to me. HR & George Tried with the material in zambia that we currently hav. Try to make yo squard that u think will rich the finalz i bet i full of indispined players both on the pitch & off. Zambia is just finished its high time we startd from the grass roots, like Janza’s flook (cosafa) we capitalise on those young stars train that intake of players if their trainable, see how far we can reach with those chaps. Not those tired legs we hav.
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 6:20 PM
@justice kafusha
Ba Justice I didn’t say our coaches are average, I was saying that “our coaches (foregin/domestic) on average have only lasted 2 yrs” in the position of coaching the national team.
I don’t think 2 yrs is enough time to do the job. How can we epxect results when we go to every AFCON with a new man in charge. We expect results now, but we don’t even have a process or facilities in place to get the job done.
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 6:25 PM
@justice kafusha
Oh sorry to add on; You are absolutely right as far as local coaches. They get little to nothing, and not nearly enough logistical support. It is criminal, the way we treat our own and yet allow inexperienced people to come in with better conditions of service. Either way I still support keeping HR in his post as coach, but if we ever engage a Zambian coach he should be given a contract and enough respect and space to do his job. Problem is our guys are not ambitious, look at Kalu he said he wanted to be treated x,y, and z and he got what he wanted…. what is preventing Peter Kaumba or George to say the same thing? Patriotism is not just about giving … your country also has to give you the tools and the incentive to do the job.
Kai Kai on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 6:47 PM
Augustine Mukoka, as a journalist you should know that there are 53 countries in Africa, not 52. Your article is a hack job against HR and some FAZ officials and not meant to celebrate Lwandamina as the unsung hero of the Nations Cup. Why give him credit for those players just because they played for him at Under-20 level. Why not give credit to the club and youth coaches that developed those players? When Manchester United or Barcelona excell who gets the praise, Ferguson and Pep Guardiola or the youth coaches that developed their players? After all, all Lwandamina did was select exceptional players good enough to represent Zambia at that age level. he played no matter in developing them. Why not give credit to Nenani Banda and his Chiparamba Academy since eight of the players in Angola were groomed by Chiparamba? Your logic is off, my friend. I supported you when Kalusha barred you from that hotel in France and it was wrong for him to strike you. But this is not how you get back at him and HR. Intelligent people will always see through any argument and will side with who ever has the best argument. And by the way, Zambia is not a great footballing nation as some of my other colleagues here have pointed out. Define greatness? We have never won the highest title in Africa and have not even qualified for the World Cup even with five places now available to Africa. FIFA could increase that allocation to ten and we would still not qualify. So HR is right when he says Zambians think they have a very good team. That’s the hard, cold truth and you should know that since you travel around Africa and have seen the other teams play.
Gametime12 on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 7:04 PM
So whose fault is it? Faz or the local coaches? Seems like local coaches just don’t have balls at all and that’s the only problem that I have with Zambian coaches. Before anyone gets hired as head coach ba justice there has to be an agreement, so why then do the local coaches settle for bones? In my world if a person can not stand up for themselves then they are not fit to be leaders. Local coaches are push overs ba justice, they are just puppets.
Tm jics on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 7:47 PM
You guys are funny and boring. Anyway Zamfoot whats the latest on the upcoming fixture: CHAN, AFCON 2012, COSAFA and the 2011 all african games.
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 9:13 PM
Brother I understand you so much, but my point is FAZ must first be the ones to make Zambian coaches feel valuable
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 9:16 PM
Why was Kalu made into something he was not??
BuzzEd on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 9:20 PM
Why keep a coach who is not patriotic to his employers and the team he is coaching when there are so many that would like to be in his position? I say get rid of him. If HR was ambitious as he is in trying to find a new job to take Zambia to the next AFCON final and qualify to the 2014 world cup, then I would absolutely want that he continues the great work he started. At that point, his ambitions would be approprietly directed toward the dream and vision of Zambian football. Who would not want to keep such a coach? However, this guys does not see Zambia winning the AFCON next year or qualifying to the world cup. As far as we he is concerned, we are too small a team to achieve such greatness or win the Africa Cup and take him to the next world cup. It defies logic as to why HR should remain as head coach. He has become too big headed, his pride and inferiority complex is what cost us the game against Cameroon and Nigeria by not making the right substitutions and giving the penalty to Thomas Nyerenda when Clifford Mulenga or J. Mulenga would have been the right choice. He has no passion for Zambian football or seeing Zambia become his “big team”. He does not want success with Zambia but with a team elsewhere. And you still want him to be your coach! I would beg for him to stay if he had won the AFCON. But the guy just took as to the quarter finals for crying out loud! Is he now the hero of Zambian football? Yes it’s been 14yrs since we made it to that level but that does not mean he now earns the right to disprespect Zambian football despite not winning the AFCON or going to the World Cup. He is should not come and kill the belief and hope that Zambian fans have always had, that their team is the best even why they keep losing. Because that my friends is the spirit of patriotism and what has kept Zambian football going amid lack of proper organization and infrastructure. HR crossed the forbiden line in my opinion, his ambition, however good an attribute, when directed at developing Zambian football becomes a cancer to our dreams and objectives as nation and thus he should be discarded! The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 9:21 PM
Iwe this is a blog. If it is boring why don’t you come up with interesting items
justice kafusha on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 9:22 PM
@BuzzEd
amen
BuzzEd on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 9:27 PM
*…..team is the best even WHEN.
*…..however good an attribute, when NOT directed.
Positive thinking ..aka Awe on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 9:49 PM
@BuzzEd
You know what? I agree with you. If HR does not want to do this, and does not want to coach a small team then maybe we should let him move on. It is pretty obvious from his actions after AFCON that maybe he doesn’t want to be here.
I too would much rather have a passionate and committed coach, than someone who is looking to go somewhere better. I was a proponent of understanding our relationship with HR was limited and at least based on achieving mutual success, but at this time I would like to see some commitment. If he doesn’t want to be here then give someone else who does the opportunity… given that he commits to a 2014 cause …infact win AFCON by 2014 and qualify for 2014 World Cup that should be the target…4 yrs is twice the lifespan of any other person who has coached Zambia.
Anonymous on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 10:15 PM
JUSTICE KAFUSHA! WHAT HAS KALUSHA DONE TO YOU!DO YOU NOT UNDERSTAND FOOTBALL POLITICS!
WELL IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW THIS, “KALUSHA IS FIFA’S CHILD”
Man ceasor on Mon, 8th Feb 2010 11:00 PM
whn a player says he wants 2play 4a big club no problem,4a coach its hell in a cell.
kk11 on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 12:07 AM
@Positive thinking ..aka Awe
Renard is just playing his cards to see what he can get. Zambia is his best bet right now and he knows. The 2 weeks away from the coversation will do him good, he can weigh his options and decide whats in his best interest. I just hope that the conditions he wants improved ” in the FAZ family” are seriously addressed so he can sign on for longer than the 2 years. Thing is the man is not after the money and no one here has aplauded him for that candor and honesty. He is as good as they come with the money we are offering at this position.
On the local coaches scean my honest oppinion is that we have men who capable of achieving results, but the problem is most of these guys are really not given enough respect, space, wiggle room e.t.c plus conditions where they can work independently without fear, being second geussed or dictated to. They are also not compensated adequately which is another problem as well, but then on the flip side most local coaches do not display that risk taking quality such as un-earthing or trying raw talent. They are comfortable with sticking to the same old script thus more or less ending up with the same old results.
Matafwali on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 2:09 AM
Your argument Gametime12 speaks volumes about FAZ. If FAZ had the best interests of the game at heart, then they would equip and treat Zambian coaches the same. The only solution to this would be to have coaches who are equipped outside FAZ resources so they can demand and command the salaries they are due. That way coaches do not feel they owe their all to FAZ.
Gametime12 on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 7:17 AM
Ill be the first one to admit that I’d like to see a Zambian coach bring back the afcon or take us to the world cup. I was one the few bloggers that wanted to see Renard take the boys to Angola, I had my own reasons and I’ll speak for myself. The main reason was that I did not see any biases in the team that Renard picked. In fact it is one of the best teams Zambia has ever produced. The team was balanced, Renard might have made tactical blunders from time to time but he had an eye for talent. Especially with the young lads. On the other hand Patric Phiri could probably read the game better than Renard, but his only downfall was the team that he picked (or the team that fans/faz picked for him). Only if Local coaches would be given room to make their own decisions then they’d get things done.
Anonymous on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 7:26 AM
i like your obersation about Patrick Phiri being able to read the game, it is for the same reason that i think patrick should work with HR since phiri has a tactical foresight.@Gametime12
Never on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 8:00 AM
You are right but the biggest problem in that respect is ‘kalijo’ and ‘PHD’.We seem to have trust in foreigners than in our own.But the bible warns us of never trusting a stranger(though you can give them assistance).
Chali cool on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 8:39 AM
Iwe Justice! Bushe Kalu alikulila umukashi o shani? I don’t understand why you passionately hate him. Please grow up and contribute positively instead of your usual PHD. Echo mwakatila ubufontini bwa ku kopelwa kuntashi kwa computer.
Bonaventure on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 9:49 AM
@Chali cool
Kalu has achieved what he has by himself and we can never take the Great Kalu or King Kalu. Go to Holland,Mexico and CAF and the resords are there. he is our son of the soil and we must be proud of his achievements most importantly be the only player South of the equator to win African Footballer of the year(1988). He has done what every player including the like of Weah,Abedi, and other legends who ever dream of. He has made history by going to AFCON as a player, player-Captain, Coach and lastly president. Don’t mix soccer politics with what he has achieved. he has also attained the highest coaching grade UEFA coaching licence grade A. Thats why he qualified to coach for Zambia even though he had not coached in Zambia before. You must also know that he was a club coach in Mexico. Their league is higher than ours. He has also lead a relatively clean life. No known scandals save for Collins transfer allegations. HE WILL REMAIN THE GOLDEN BOY OF ZAMBIAN ANF AFRICAN SOCCER. NO WONDER FIFA,CAF,SAFA etc HAS SEEN IT FIT TO USE HIM. Like someone said don’t assume Kalu doesn’t read such blogs or no one who is close to him doesn’t read this nice blog.
Saimbwende on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 10:20 AM
@justice kafusha
Iwe Justice twanaka naiwe. Ufule na head sock may be you will start reasoning better.
Dinamo on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 11:13 AM
@DaMwiinger
DaMwiinger I wish you knew how Zamfoot is struglling to update us on the Zambian game.Guys like Whisper,Mabbwana,Spaks,The Doctor,Ba Zambia attended the meeting we had at NAPSA to see how we can assist Zamfoot and nothing yet has been implemented.Contact Zamfoot so that they forward minutes of the NAPSA meeting.We need to put our heads together and see how we can help Zamfoot to deliver a much more better service we are all going to be proud of.
Uncle Bobs on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 11:41 AM
Ba Bona, that’s why we have a SWOT analysis that should be continuous. But clearly you have only done a SO without a WT analysis. Kalu at the helm of FAZ needs to do a lot more in my opinion, of course not by himself (as per your argument) but through involving OBJECTIVE STAKEHOLDERS that will correct him when he is wrong and not CADRES that just want to associate with his FAME that unfortunately are many. True to word, Kalu has had an illustrous life, but that shouldn’t insulate him from scrutiny. FIFA, CAF,SAFA is made up of men that overstay in offices and have not always been objective in dealing with matters e.g. Kalu slapping a journalist and going scot-free while Maradona was banned for what i perceive a lesser case but also punishable offence. I don’t know whether the Togo issue could have dealt with differently though they followed what’s in black and white that they don’t always do. As for you, i know your history and would always know your line of thought in such issues-ha ha ha!
Uncle Bobs on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 11:48 AM
Bane, let’s not forget how Justice travelled to UK to watch abaiche after getting a written confirmation that all the players would be there. Let’s also not forget how Justice objectively warned us of FIFA repurcussions when Kalu (one that he’s being accused of hating) was suspended by our NSCZ. Let’s be obejective and not base our arguments on SHIFTING SAND principles to borrow Mpombo’s vocabulary. We love Kalu as our son who has made our country proud like Cherise, Lindiwe and now Lukundo Nalungwe (Face of Africa) but certainly not a quarter finalled Zambia in Angola! Kalu do not listen to CADRES that will not add value to your life, but pay attention to divergent view that you should take as FEEDBACK to make you a better person. I for one will not guarantee you patting on the back when you err. I am personally ready to help you in anyway, like i do my beloved Nkana. Be careful of HANGERS ON!
Chali cool on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 12:36 PM
Mudala naimwe! how many people travel to watch their teams and yet they do’t blow the trampet? What about the students in Algeria who went to give support to our team? Whats so special with Justice? Your advice to Kalu is not genuine cause you don’t mean well. Criticism as long as it is positive is good not were your goal is to ensure that you bring down someone. What kind of criticism is it were you always see black even when it is white?
DaMwiinger on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 1:50 PM
Dinamo, thanks for that. I appreciate the effort they are making and I am more than willing to help. I have tried to be in touch but have not received any response. I don’t know why. Zamfoot, you have my contact details, please feel free to send me the minutes of the NAPSA meeting
Rightly or wrongly, and on the basis of what I am seeing on the site, Zamfoot seems to be taking the direction of the Post i.e. focussing on controversy. But I stand corrected. The NAPSA meeting is one of the things I also brought out as a way we as fans can help in practical ways.
ba zambia on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 2:31 PM
elo naisa,when toking of a gud coach in zambia, dont 4get simukonda he defended the cosafa in 1998, and lwandamina has never won a cup and not even taken a team to the continental cup up to the quarters. He was a doom to HR, and lets try Fightone and Wedson
in the meantym as we look for a coach if not Jose the angolan coach or simply Shehatta of Egypt, then same team till 2014. HR has done nothing to praise him about. Tapali mwe bantu palibe
Kai Kai on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 5:34 PM
Chali Cool, Saimbwende, you gentlemen have jokes! I have never laughed so hard before on this blog, hahahaha!
Saimbwende: “Ufule na head sock may be you will start reasoning better.’’
Chali cool: “Iwe Justice! Bushe Kalu alikulila umukashi o shani?
Justice Kafusha on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 9:28 PM
I do not hate him but I hate the way he behaves. I know who you are you change names because you are afraid of using you own name, Mr. Journalist
Why do you hate me mester???
Justice Kafusha on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 9:29 PM
No problem
Justice Kafusha on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 9:30 PM
Hiding will never take us anywhere
Justice Kafusha on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 9:33 PM
Reasoning yaba
Justice Kafusha on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 9:33 PM
Since when
Justice Kafusha on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 9:36 PM
Head sock in my grave (mu manda)
Anonymous on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 11:16 PM
Renerd shud jst go coz we all knw he want 2 coach a big african team.if he wanted 2 coach at da world cup he shud hv qualified zambia.
Bonaventure on Wed, 10th Feb 2010 8:25 AM
@Uncle Bobs
Points taken and noted. Are you okey my brother? Are you on facebook. We could link up.
Pmk on Wed, 10th Feb 2010 1:52 PM
augustine war beef do u have with Kalu, ONE THING YOU SHUD KNOW IS YOU WILL NEVER BE LIKE HIM NO MATTER WAT YOU SAY YOU WILL OWAYZ BE KA LAZALO
emuzo on Fri, 12th Feb 2010 11:24 AM
please let the heroes of yesteryear like johnstone bwalya and charlie cool assist the national team prior to important tournaments.they should remember their roots which nurtured them.