Zambian international footballer Kabaso Chongo is currently recovering from head injuries after his club, TP Mazembe, was ambushed by hostile supporters in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The violent incident occurred on Wednesday following a league match in Mbuji Mayi, where Mazembe secured a late victory against the home side, FC Sanga Balende. The dramatic finish on the pitch apparently incited the ire of the local fans, leading to a dangerous confrontation after the final whistle.
In the aftermath of the game, the atmosphere turned hostile as supporters began hurling stones at the visiting Mazembe delegation. The attack left four players from the Lubumbashi-based squad injured, with Chongo sustaining significant wounds to his head. The chaotic scene underscores the volatile nature of football rivalry in the region, where passionate support can sometimes boil over into violence against players and staff.
Speaking about the ordeal, Chongo described the physical toll the attack has taken on him. “I am still in a lot of pain. I can’t say when exactly I will be back in training but I will need a few days to recover,” he stated. The defender’s immediate focus is on recuperation, putting his participation in upcoming fixtures in doubt as he takes the necessary time to heal from the assault.
The attack comes at a critical juncture for TP Mazembe as they push to defend their league title. Currently sitting in second place, they are trailing the Kinshasa-based AS Vita, who hold the top spot. The injury to a key player like Chongo, combined with the psychological impact of the attack on the squad, could pose a significant challenge to their championship aspirations as the season progresses.
