15/04/2026
Lundazi footballer dies after colliding with goalie on the pitch
A 22-year-old football player has died in Lundazi District after colliding with a goalkeeper during a match.
The deceased, identified as Stanley Mtonga of Vundumu Football Club, collided with Erick Kalowe (aged between 16 and 18) of Chimuzizi Football Club.
The incident occurred on April 14, 2026, at Vundumu Football Ground in Ndembela Village, within Chief Kapichila’s area.
Eastern province police commanding officer Robertson Mweemba said that the match was proceeding normally until the second half.
"The game went on well until around 16:30 hours when the deceased, a striker for his team, collided with the opponent's goalkeeper while attempting to score," Mr Mweemba said in a statement.
Following the collision, both players fell to the ground.
While the goalkeeper recovered, Mtonga remained unresponsive despite receiving initial first aid.
He was eventually rushed to Kakumba Health Post, where he received medical attention after complaining of severe chest pains.
Mtonga was treated and discharged for home observation; however, his condition worsened significantly overnight.
He passed away today at approximately 00:10 hours while family members were arranging transport to Lundazi District Hospital.
Mr Mweemba said Police were alerted and arrived at the scene in Ndembela Village, where they observed that the body had no visible external injuries.
He said the remains have since been deposited at Lundazi District Hospital Mortuary, awaiting a postmortem to ascertain the exact cause of death.
An inquiry file into the incident has been opened.
Credit: Zambia Daily Mail
