The Zambian football community has been plunged into deep mourning following the tragic death of 15-year-old goalkeeper Annita Chomba, who collapsed during a Women National League match in Kabwe. The Zambian Premier League (ZPL) confirmed the heartbreaking news, describing the incident as a devastating loss to the game and the nation.
Tragic Incident During Women National League Match
Annita Chomba, a Green Buffaloes Women Football Club goalkeeper who was on loan at Locus Women Football Club, collapsed during a Women National League fixture against Kabwe Warriors Women Football Club. According to the ZPL, the incident occurred after the young goalkeeper rushed from the bench onto the pitch to celebrate a goal.
Medical personnel and officials responded immediately, and Annita was rushed to hospital for urgent medical attention. Despite swift intervention and efforts to resuscitate her, she was sadly pronounced dead, sending shockwaves across the football fraternity.
ZPL Confirms Death and Expresses Condolences
In an official statement issued by ZPL Chief Executive Officer Joseph Chimpampwe, the League confirmed Annita’s passing and extended heartfelt condolences to her family, teammates, and the wider football community. The ZPL described the loss of such a young and promising footballer as deeply painful and heartbreaking.
“The loss of such a young and promising life is heartbreaking and has left the football community in shock,” the statement read, underlining the magnitude of the tragedy.
Investigations and Call for Privacy
The Zambian Premier League has confirmed that it is engaging relevant authorities and key stakeholders to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. The League stated that further communication will be provided once more information becomes available.
At the same time, the ZPL has called on the football family and the general public to respect the privacy of the Chomba family during this extremely difficult period as they mourn the loss of their loved one.
Conclusion
Annita Chomba’s untimely passing has cast a dark cloud over Zambian football, reminding the nation of the fragility of life and the importance of player welfare at all levels of the game. As tributes continue to pour in, the football fraternity stands united in grief, honouring the memory of a young goalkeeper whose life and career were tragically cut short.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
