Gianni Infantino, the head of FIFA, the governing body of football, has expressed his condolences for the passing of former Chipolopolo player Justin Shonga.
In a letter to Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Andrew Kamanga, Infantino stated he hoped the memories of Shonga’s achievements in football would provide some comfort during this difficult time.
“I would like to express my sincerest and heartfelt condolences on the passing of former international player, Justin Shonga. Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel for this loss,” said Infantino.
He added: “Talent of Zambian football, his legacy and achievements, and in particular his personality, his loyalty and his human qualities will not be forgotten and he will be truly missed.”
Shonga died aged 27 and has been laid to rest today in his homeland in Chipata.
During his career, Justin Shonga won over 30 caps with the Chipolopolos and was part of the national team that reached the final of the 2017 Cosafa Cup.
At club level, having started with Nkwazi, he played in South Africa with Orlando Pirates, Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila, Cape Town City and Sekhukhune United.
He also had stints in Egypt, Georgia and, most recently, in Saudi Arabia.
