The African football community is in shock and mourning following the tragic passing of former Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City striker, Justin Shonga. The news of his death, confirmed by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), has sent ripples through the local football scene, leaving fans, teammates, and colleagues reeling in disbelief.
At the age of 27, Shonga's life was tragically cut short, leaving behind a profound legacy on and off the field. The FAZ confirmed that the former Buccaneers striker passed away after a brief illness, plunging the football fraternity into a state of deep sorrow. The news of his demise has reverberated across continents, uniting fans in grief and paying tribute to his remarkable contributions to the beautiful game.
Zambia Police Deputy Spokesperson Dan Mwale, in an interview with the FAZ Media Team, expressed their condolences and confirmed the tragic news. "Former Chipolopolo forward Justin Shonga has died. Zambia Police Deputy Spokesperson Dan Mwale has confirmed in an interview with the FAZ Media Team. Mwale said Shonga died at Sikanze Police Hospital after a short illness. More details will be availed in due course," the FAZ announced.
Shonga's impressive football career spanned various clubs, both in South Africa and abroad. He made a lasting impact during his time with Orlando Pirates, where his exceptional skills and goal-scoring prowess endeared him to fans. His memorable performances on the pitch marked him as a force to be reckoned with, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
Shonga rose to prominence after he caught the eye at the 2017 Cosafa Cup in the North West Province – scoring three goals to help Zambia reach the final where they lost to Zimbabwe. His exploits caught the eye of Pirates who signed him in 2017 from Nkwazi in Zambia where he was also working as a police officer.
The frontman scored 10 goals and provided nine assists in 56 PSL matches during his three-year stint with the Buccaneers – helping the team finish second in the league twice.
Beyond his contributions to Orlando Pirates, Shonga also showcased his talent at Cape Town City, Sekhukhune United, and Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila. With each club, he left an indelible mark, leaving fans awestruck by his technical abilities and unwavering dedication to the sport he loved.
His time at Orlando Pirates was marked by memorable moments, including a crucial goal against arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs, a strike that cemented his place in the hearts of Buccaneers fans. He went on to play for Cape Town City, where he continued to showcase his talent and determination, leaving a lasting impression on the club and its supporters.
Shonga's career took him beyond the borders of Zambia and the SADC region, with stints in clubs like Sekhukhune United and Najran SC in Saudi Arabia. He was a true nomad of the game, seeking new challenges and opportunities to showcase his talent on the global stage.
Shonga's passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of fate. He leaves behind a legacy of talent, passion, and dedication, a legacy that will continue to inspire young footballers across Zambia, South Africa and beyond.
