Katongo Brothers Reflect on Brotherhood, Glory, and Legacy in Emotional CAF Interview
In the rich tapestry of African football, few stories resonate with the emotional depth and national pride as that of Chris and Felix Katongo, two brothers whose shared journey from Mufulira’s gritty football pitches to AFCON glory embodies the spirit of Zambian resilience and unity.
In a moving joint interview with CAFOnline, the Katongo brothers looked back on the highs, the challenges, and the unique bond that saw them rise to the pinnacle of African football, culminating in Zambia’s historic 2012 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph.
From the Streets of Mufulira to the World Stage
Growing up in the mining town of Mufulira, football was more than a pastime, it was a calling. “We trained on the streets, in backyards, anywhere we could kick a ball,” Chris reminisced. That shared love for the game would propel both brothers to the professional stage, where their journeys intertwined through local clubs and the national setup.
Felix recalls a critical early turning point: “My first real memory was with Green Buffaloes against Konkola Blades. I came on and changed the game. That’s where I started to stand out.”
Chris, already an established player, took on the role of mentor and protector. “I did everything I could to help him fit in,” he said. “When he joined the national team in 2004, I was proud. Our team always had a family spirit.”
The Pride of a Family, the Pride of a Nation
For the Katongos, donning the national jersey was not just about football, it was about fulfilling a dream rooted in family. Their late father, whom Chris fondly remembered, was a driving force behind their success.
“He saw his dreams come true through us,” Chris shared. “It was a source of great pride for the whole family.”
Despite playing side by side, Felix was adamant he earned his place on merit: “I already knew many players from the U-20 and U-23 teams. I didn’t get special treatment.”
On and Off the Pitch: The Duality of Brotherhood
Playing as brothers on the same team comes with unique dynamics, moments of joy, competition, and shared pressure.
“If your brother makes a mistake, you feel it more,” said Chris. “But I was lucky, he gave me great assists. One against Ghana stands out during the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.”
Felix added: “Having Chris around pushed me to raise my game. But if one of us had a bad day, we both felt the criticism.”
Their shared experience, however, only strengthened their bond. “We spent so much time together on and off the pitch,” said Felix. “It brought us closer.”
AFCON 2012: A Dream Realized
For Zambia, AFCON 2012 was more than just a tournament, it was a national healing. Coming two decades after the tragic 1993 air disaster that claimed the national team, the victory in Libreville, Gabon, where the tragedy occurred, was symbolic, spiritual, and deeply emotional.
Chris and Felix played key roles in the campaign. Their leadership, composure, and energy became infectious throughout the team.
“Our performances had a positive influence,” said Felix. “The team knew we could make a difference together.”
“I still remember a pass from Felix in the final, I nearly scored,” Chris laughed. “He still teases me about it to this day.”
The final against Côte d’Ivoire, packed with drama and nerve-wracking tension, ended in a penalty shootout that saw Zambia crowned champions of Africa for the first time.
“It was an indescribable pride,” Chris said. “Zambia has always had siblings in the national team, the Lota brothers, the Bwalya brothers. We were proud to continue that tradition.”
Individual Glory, Shared Joy
Chris Katongo’s exceptional performance earned him the Player of the Tournament title at AFCON 2012, an accolade recognized across the continent. His brother Felix, however, harboured no jealousy.
“He deserved it,” Felix said. “He worked hard throughout the tournament. I was very proud of him.”
Their synergy extended beyond talent, it was a story of mutual respect, sacrifice, and shared vision.
Beyond the Pitch: Building the Future of Zambian Football
Now retired from international duty, the Katongos are focused on the next chapter: giving back to the game that gave them everything.
Felix dreams of becoming a top-level coach, inspired by sibling coaches like the Hossam brothers in Egypt. He also hopes to help develop local talent in Zambia.
Chris, always a natural leader, has his sights set on football administration. “I want to take on a role at the Zambian FA, and maybe, one day, coach the national team.”
Both agree that investing in grassroots football, mentoring young players, and strengthening local structures is the key to Zambia’s future success.
A Legacy That Lives On
The story of Chris and Felix Katongo is a tale of family, football, and the power of dreams. It’s a blueprint for aspiring players across Zambia and Africa, proof that talent, when paired with discipline and unity, can create legends.
As Zambia prepares for future continental battles, the echoes of the Katongo era remain loud, a golden chapter in the country’s sporting history.
“If it’s not now, it never will be,” Chris had said before the 2012 triumph. Thankfully for Zambia, “now” became forever.
