James Chamanga Bids Farewell to Football After a Glorious 25-Year Career
Zambian football icon James Chamanga has officially retired from professional football, ending a remarkable 25-year career that spanned continents and brought glory to both club and country. The 45-year-old veteran striker, who has been a key figure for Red Arrows FC since returning to Zambia in 2019, will be honored with a testimonial match on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka.
The farewell match, which will see Red Arrows take on ZANACO FC, promises to be a fitting tribute to one of Zambia’s most respected football figures. Red Arrows have announced that entrance to the open wing will be free, inviting fans to come and celebrate the legacy of a true legend.
“Red Arrows Football Club will host a historical testimonial match in honour of James Chamanga, a legend, a warrior & a leader of the Zambian game!! Red Arrows vs ZANACO – The farewell to a hero who gave his all for club & country. FREE ENTRY | OPEN WING. No tickets, just bring your voice, your passion & your love for the game,” the club said in a statement.
Chamanga returned to Zambia at the age of 39 after a 14-year career abroad that included stints in South Africa with Bush Bucks, SuperSport United, and Moroka Swallows, and in China with Dalian Shide and Liaoning Hongyun. Despite questions about his age at the time, he silenced doubters with consistent performances, winning two league titles, two Charity Shields, and the ABSA Cup with Red Arrows. Notably, he clinched the MTN Super League Golden Boot in the 2019/2020 season at age 40, scoring 16 goals.
Internationally, Chamanga is best remembered for his role in Zambia’s historic 2012 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. He scored a memorable goal in the quarterfinals against Sudan, sealing a 3-0 win with a stunning curler in the 86th minute.
Chamanga’s journey began in 2000 with Makumbi Stars, followed by spells at City of Lusaka and ZANACO before moving to South Africa. One of his standout moments came in 2007 when he scored five goals in a single match for Moroka Swallows against Platinum Stars, including a hat-trick within four minutes.
Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Chamanga has been a role model for young players, mentoring rising talents like Ricky Banda. Known for his professionalism, discipline, and humility, he leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond goals and trophies.
As James Chamanga hangs up his boots, Zambian football says goodbye to not just a great striker, but a symbol of excellence, longevity, and leadership. His farewell match is expected to draw fans from across the country, eager to honor a player who truly gave his all.
