Captain Christopher Katongo says he halted his proposed move to Angolan side Kabuscorp FC in order to feature for Zambia at the 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Rwanda.
Katongo led the locally assembled Zambia squad that exited the CHAN finals at the quarter-final stage on Sunday after losing to Guinea 5-4 on post-match penalties following a goalless 120 minutes.
Kabuscorp FC last month started chasing for 2012 Africa Cup winning skipper’s signature.
In an interview, Katongo said he is now ready to move after representing Zambia at CHAN.
“If I had signed for the Angolan club I could have not played this CHAN. I sacrificed my myself for my country,” Katongo said.
He scored the only goal when Zambia advanced to the quarter-finals after beating Uganda 1-0 in their second group match.
“I could not have inspired the boys had I signed.This is the sacrifice I have made for my country.”
Katongo returned to Zambia last season after stints in South Africa, Denmark, German, China and Greece.
He played for Danish side Brøndby, German club Arminia Bielefeld where he spent two years until he switched to Greek side Skoda Xanthi.
In July 2011, Katongo signed a two-and-half-year contract with Chinese Super League side Henan Construction before returning to South Africa to play for Golden Arrows and Bidvest Wits FC.
OK. We appreciate your efforts.
I also sacrificed for Zambia by leaving the country, to let PF torment Zambians in peace.
Kulayumfwa fye these days, if no one praise me, I will.
The most idiotic form of sacrifice. Its the other way round you footballing moron. The country sacrificed for you. Had you not played, we would have had a replacement who doesn’t psychologically stop other players from scoring. we would have had a first penalty taker who would have actually scored the first penalty. 2 goals in four games and you call that inspiring the team. Please, remain there in Angola and dont attempt to “sacrifice” yourself for the country. we have enough capable young strikers in Zambia
Name those strikers. Moron!
Peter Njobvu go jump off the Mchinga escarpment. If its too far try the Luangwa bridge if it’s too far try the knife edge bridge if it’s too far try Beit bridge since you are in Sasafilika you moron
Why didnt kalengo wait as well?
That’s why he didn’t feature
You are as stupid as the person who allowed you to played for the national team again this should never happen again
You are always a hero ba Katongo. It is only when you came in to play for Zambia that our National soccer team managed to put smiles on the many faces of Zambians. Its been long since I saw Zambians watching the matches involving Zambia with a lot of interest. We salute you Mr. Warrant Officer Class 1. Continue inspiring the young lads…Zambia still needs you.
For sure. Many may not like like on this forum but certainly Chris is a class above the rest as it should in the matches we played at the CHAN. He is the only one who looked like scoring and indeed did that. Our local player are pathetic to say the least.
Chris we love you and don’t listen to comments from jealousy people. You have the grace from above (Divine) to lead the National team as long as you are available. Tell also all your friends playing soccer both locally and abroad that we love them. Keep it up and we will always support you guys. Work extra -hard for more for yourselves and for your nation mother Zambia. You have really done us proud.
How old is Katango?