Zambia has a rich and storied history in football, with a passionate fan base and a strong tradition
of producing talented players.
While many Zambian footballers have made their mark in domestic leagues and on the international stage, some have taken their skills to Europe, competing at the highest level of club football. In this article, we will highlight some of the trailblazing Zambian footballers who have made their mark in European football.
Kalusha Bwalya
Kalusha Bwalya is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in Zambian football history. Born
on August 16, 1963, in Mufulira, Zambia, Bwalya made a significant impact both domestically
and in Europe.
During his career, he played for several clubs in Europe, including Cercle Brugge
in Belgium, PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands, and Club America in Mexico.
However, his most notable stint was at PSV Eindhoven, where he became a household name in European
football. Eindhoven is one of the top sides not only in the Netherlands but also in Europe,
regarded as top favourites to battle Ajax Amsterdam and Feyenoord for the Eredivisie title this
season.
Zambia betting fans can bet on all the Eredivisie matches on the Bettors.co.zm website.
Bwalya’s crowning achievement came in 1988 when he won the African Footballer of the Year
award.
He was an integral part of the Zambian national team, known as the “Chipolopolo,” and
represented his country in three African Cup tournaments and a FIFA World Cup.
Emmanuel Mayuka
Emmanuel Mayuka is another Zambian talent who made his mark in European football. Born on
November 21, 1990, in Kabwe, Zambia, Mayuka’s rise to prominence began at Swiss club BSC
Young Boys, where he showcased his goal scoring prowess. He later moved to Southampton FC
in the English Premier League in 2012, becoming one of the few Zambian players to play in one
of Europe’s top leagues.
Mayuka’s memorable moment came during the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored the
winning goal in the final against Ivory Coast, helping Zambia claim their first-ever continental
title.
Rainford Kalaba
Rainford Kalaba is a versatile midfielder who has enjoyed domestic and European success. Born
on August 14, 1986, in Mapulanga, Zambia, Kalaba started his European journey with
Portuguese club Sporting Braga. He later joined TP Mazembe in the Democratic Republic of
Congo, where he played a pivotal role in their success, including reaching the FIFA Club World
Cup final.
Kalaba’s skillful dribbling and creativity on the field earned him recognition as one of Africa’s
top midfielders.
He has been an integral part of the Zambian national team and played a crucial
role in their Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2012.
Patson Daka
Patson Daka is a rising star in Zambian football who has already significantly impacted
European football. Born on October 9, 1998, in Chingola, Zambia, Daka began his European
career with Red Bull Salzburg in Austria. His explosive pace, clinical finishing, and football
intelligence have made him a sought-after talent in Europe.
During his time at Salzburg, Daka consistently ranked among the top scorers in the Austrian
Bundesliga and showcased his skills in the UEFA Champions League.
In 2021, he made a high-profile move to Leicester City in the English Premier League, but at the time of writing this
article, there was a bidding war from several European sides, including AC Milan and
Bournemouth.
