THE Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has described late former Chipolopolo Coach and football legend, Freddie Mwila Senior, as one of the country’s most distinguished football figures. FAZ President, Keith Mweemba says Mwila’s death is a huge loss to Zambian football considering his immense contribution to the game as a player, coach, mentor and administrator. […]

THE Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has described late former Chipolopolo Coach and football legend, Freddie Mwila Senior, as one of the country’s most distinguished football figures.

FAZ President, Keith Mweemba says Mwila’s death is a huge loss to Zambian football considering his immense contribution to the game as a player, coach, mentor and administrator.

FAZ Head of Media and Communications, Nkweto Tembwe, Mweemba said said in a statement that, Mwila’s experience and guidance remained valuable to football, having served as a FAZ life member and member of the National Teams Technical Committee.

He said Mwila was part of the pioneering Zambian squad that won silver at the 1974 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), helping lay the foundation for the growth and international recognition of Zambian football.

Mweemba further stated that the late football icon’s contribution spanned several decades, leaving a legacy that would continue to inspire generations.

Mwila, aged 80, died around 01:00 hours on Monday at Maina Soko Medical Centre in Lusaka.

During his playing career, he represented the national team, popularly known as KK11, from 1965 to 1974, and featured for Nkana, then known as Rhokana United, and Ndola United.

He also played for Atlanta Chiefs in the United States between 1967 and 1968 and had a stint in England, where he featured for Aston Villa.

After retiring from playing, Mwila coached the Zambia and Botswana national teams and several clubs in both countries.

At club level, he guided Power Dynamos to the 1991 African Cup Winners’ Cup title, which remains the only continental club trophy won by a Zambian team.