Within the huge panorama of African soccer, few tales are as transferring and provoking as that of Chris and Felix Katongo.
Skilled on the bustling streets of Mufulira, Zambia, the brothers rose by means of the ranks of nationwide soccer, fuelled by shared ardour and a deep drive to raise their nation’s colors to the very best degree.
Over time, they grew to become greater than teammates–pillars of a golden technology and symbols of a dream fulfilled.
Their defining second? The 2012 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, received in opposition to powerhouse Côte d’Ivoire, in a closing that was as emotional because it was historic. For the world, Zambia had scripted one of the stunning tales in African soccer.
For the Katongos, it was a good deeper triumph–a fraternal milestone and the fruits of a shared journey by means of challenges, expectations and stress.
On this joint interview, the brothers replicate on their parallel careers, shared reminiscences within the nationwide jersey, the power of their household bond, and their hopes to cross on that collective vitality to future generations.
With honesty, anecdotes, and imaginative and prescient, Chris and Felix Katongo provide a uncommon glimpse into what it means to play, win, and dream as a household.
CAFOnline.com: What are your first reminiscences collectively on the pitch?
Felix: My first actual reminiscence goes again to a match with Inexperienced Buffaloes in opposition to Konkola Blades. I got here on and adjusted the course of the sport. That is the place I actually began to face out.
Chris: I keep in mind doing all the things I may to assist him slot in. Our workforce had a household spirit, so it was simpler. I used to be proud when he joined the nationwide workforce in 2004, a 12 months after me.
And the way did your loved ones react to seeing you each play for the nationwide workforce?
Felix: They have been extremely completely satisfied. We obtained plenty of encouragement.
Chris: Particularly our father–may he relaxation in peace. He noticed his goals come true by means of us. It was a supply of nice delight for the entire household.
Felix, did having your brother within the nationwide workforce assist your integration?
Felix: Not notably. I already knew many gamers from the U-20 and U-23 groups. I did not get any particular remedy.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of enjoying along with your brother?
Chris: The draw back is that when your brother makes a mistake, you are feeling much more stress. However I used to be lucky–he additionally gave me some nice assists. I keep in mind one in opposition to Ghana within the first match on the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium throughout 2014 World Cup qualifying.
Felix: Having Chris round pushed me to lift my sport. But when one among us had a foul day, the opposite felt the criticism too.
How did that strengthen your brotherly bond?
Chris: I used to be captain, so I needed to set the instance. I corrected him when needed however all the time tried to be honest. It introduced us nearer.
Felix: We spent plenty of time collectively, each on and off the pitch. It actually solidified our relationship.
What affect did your relationship have on the workforce, particularly throughout AFCON 2012?
Felix: Our performances had a optimistic affect. The workforce knew we may make a distinction collectively.
Chris: We talked about extra than simply soccer. We laughed, hung out in my room. I nonetheless keep in mind a cross from Felix within the final–I almost scored! He nonetheless teases me about that one.
Did you ever think about turning into African champions collectively?
Felix: Truthfully, no. I dreamed of successful the AFCON, however not essentially alongside my brother.
Chris: I did. I even stated it throughout our coaching camp in South Africa: “If it isn’t now, it by no means shall be.”
What did it imply to win the title collectively?
Felix: It was massive–a historic second to share along with your brother.
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Chris: An indescribable delight. Zambia has all the time had siblings in its nationwide team–the Lota brothers, the Bwalya brothers… We continued that custom.
One second from AFCON 2012 you’d wish to relive?
Felix: Once I held off two Ivorian defenders on the precise wing to set him up.
Chris: And he nonetheless blames me for not scoring, so we may have prevented the penalty shootout! (laughs)
Chris, you have been named Participant of the Match. Felix, how did you are feeling?
Felix: He deserved it. He labored arduous all through the event. I used to be very pleased with him.
What are your goals at the moment?
Felix: To construct a sustainable enterprise, grow to be a prime coach just like the Hossam brothers in Egypt, and develop Zambia’s younger expertise.
Chris: To tackle a job on the Zambian FA–and possibly in the future, coach the nationwide workforce.
