Minister of Youth and Sports Likando Mufalali is leading tributes to former national team captain and coach Freddie Mwila Snr, who died in Lusaka today aged 80. Mwila died at Maina Soko Medical Centre in Lusaka around 01:00 hours on Monday after suffering a stroke. Mufalali…

Minister of Youth and Sports Likando Mufalali is leading tributes to former national team captain and coach Freddie Mwila Snr, who died in Lusaka today aged 80.

Mwila died at Maina Soko Medical Centre in Lusaka around 01:00 hours on Monday after suffering a stroke.

Mufalali says Mwila’s death is a great loss to the country, particularly the football fraternity, considering his immense contribution to Zambian football.

The Minister noted that Mwila served the country with distinction both as a player and coach.

“His immense contribution to Zambian football will forever be remembered. His legacy will continue to inspire generations,” Mufalali said.

“As Government, we join the football fraternity and the entire nation in mourning this great loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” he added.

Football Association of Zambia President Keith Mweemba says he learnt with profound shock and sadness of the death of the former Chipolopolo coach and FAZ life member.

Mweemba says Mwila’s death has left a huge void, particularly at a time when his experience remained invaluable as a member of the FAZ National Teams Technical Committee.

“On behalf of my executive and the entire football family, I wish to extend my profound condolences to the Mwila family. We have lost a fountain of wisdom,” Mweemba said.

Football writer and commentator Chibulu Musonda described Mwila as a faithful servant of Zambian football.

“Where does one start to script eulogies for such a great man, a pioneer, trailblazer and faithful servant, first of many, of Zambian football?” Musonda said.

Power Dynamos follower Chinyemba Kalama said he was devastated, describing Mwila as the greatest coach he ever knew who led Power Dynamos to Zambia’s sole African club continental title in 1991.

Funeral gathering is being held at the family home in Mapepe Farms.