Mbesuma's Journey to Stardom

Christopher Katongo, a former Zambian international footballer, referred to him as "the true African goal poacher," while Kalusha Bwalya, another former Zambian international and former African Footballer of the Year, described him as "one of the most feared strikers on the continent." Emmanuel Mayuka, yet another former Zambian international, said, "His goalscoring instinct is out of this world."

The subject of these glowing accolades is Collins Mbesuma, a Zambian football legend who terrorized defenses across Africa and beyond during his playing days. At his peak, Mbesuma was a clinical finisher, a lethal predator in front of goal, and a nightmare for defenders. His goalscoring exploits earned him a move to English Premier League side Portsmouth in 2005, making him the first Zambian to play in the prestigious league.

Mbesuma's Career Trajectory

Born on February 3, 1984, in Luanshya, Zambia, Mbesuma began his football career at a young age, playing for local teams in his hometown. His talent was evident from an early age, and he quickly rose through the ranks, joining Zambian Premier League side Roan United in 2001. At Roan United, Mbesuma established himself as one of the most promising young strikers in the country, scoring goals at an impressive rate.

His performances for Roan United earned him a move to South African Premier League giants Kaizer Chiefs in 2003. At Kaizer Chiefs, Mbesuma continued to score goals, helping the club win the league title in his first season. He also won the PSL Golden Boot award in 2004, scoring 25 goals in 32 appearances.

Mbesuma's Move to Europe

Mbesuma's impressive performances in South Africa caught the attention of English Premier League side Portsmouth, who signed him in 2005 for a fee of £1.2 million. Mbesuma struggled to adapt to the English game, however, and he failed to establish himself as a regular starter at Portsmouth. After a disappointing spell in England, Mbesuma returned to South Africa, joining Mamelodi Sundowns in 2006.

At Mamelodi Sundowns, Mbesuma rediscovered his goalscoring touch, helping the club win the PSL title in 2006-07. He also won the PSL Golden Boot award again in 2007, scoring 14 goals in 20 appearances.

Mbesuma's International Career

Mbesuma made his international debut for Zambia in 2004. He represented his country at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored two goals in three appearances. He also played at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored one goal in four appearances. Mbesuma retired from international football in 2017, having scored 22 goals in 51 appearances for Zambia.

Where is Mbesuma Now?

After retiring from football in 2018, Mbesuma returned to Zambia, where he has been involved in various business ventures. He is also a football analyst and pundit, appearing regularly on Zambian television and radio. Mbesuma is a respected figure in Zambian football, and he is often consulted by the Football Association of Zambia on matters relating to the development of the game in the country.

FAQs

1. What is Collins Mbesuma's current occupation?

Collins Mbesuma is a retired footballer who is now involved in various business ventures. He is also a football analyst and pundit.

2. When did Collins Mbesuma retire from football?

Collins Mbesuma retired from football in 2018.

3. How many goals did Collins Mbesuma score for Zambia?

Collins Mbesuma scored 22 goals in 51 appearances for Zambia.

4. Which clubs did Collins Mbesuma play for?

Collins Mbesuma played for Roan United, Kaizer Chiefs, Portsmouth, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Orlando Pirates.

5. What is Collins Mbesuma's nickname?

Collins Mbesuma's nickname is "The Bomber" because of his powerful and prolific goalscoring ability.