CHIBWE RECOUNTS DEBUT SEASON, PROMISES TO SUPPORT NATIONAL TEAM GOALKEEPERS

Zambia National team shot stopper Cyril Chibwe believes he has a lot to offer to the Zambian game.

The South African born shot stopper was one of the marquee signings ZESCO United made prior to the start of the 2022/23 season adding to a delightful list of talented goalkeepers that are currently donning TeamYaziko colours.

Chibwe’s move from South Africa to Zambia was a win-win situation for club and player with both looking to bounce back on the international stage.

United were attempting to shake off an irksome hangover of an early exit from the 2021/22 CAF Champions League while Chibwe’s aim was to revive his career after stints at Polokwane City and Baroka FC while keeping close tabs on developments at the Zambia National Team.

“To be honest I have been in South Africa all my life and coming to Zambia wasn’t even a hustle for me because it’s something personal and special. Obviously, I had offers in South Africa, but I had to sit down with my manager and weighed the options in terms of where I was to benefit as a player.

“CAF competitions give you great exposure. As a player you look for things like this in your career. You gain experience outside the country playing in Champions League and Confederations Cup. I think it is a way to build a player and the club,” Chibwe said after signing for ZESCO United.

After over eleven months of total football in the Zambian league with United finishing third and missing out on CAF, Chibwe’s debut season has been a mixed bag of success and frustrations.

Though plagued by injuries, Chibwe is delighted with his start to life in the Zambian local league.

“I have enjoyed my time here particularly my debut season in the Zambian league. I did my best every time I was given an opportunity to don ZESCO United colours unfortunately, injuries frustrated my progress at the football club.

“Though painful, these challenges helped me grow mentally as player and a person. Overall it was a very good experience for me. I don’t regret coming here. My focus now is to begin preparations for the next season so that I can help my team win the league title.”

Meanwhile Chibwe has not dropped ambitions of returning his place in the Zambia National Team despite missing out on the provisional list of the Chipolopolo squads unveiled by Coach Avram Grant to participate in the Africa Cup Nations qualifier match against Ivory Coast.

“It is still my ambition to find my way into the National Team. Like I said, much of my progress was frustrated by injuries. For now, I will support the goalkeepers currently called to the National Team. I believe my time will come once again,” he said.

Author: Desmond Katongo