James Chamanga Bows Out: A Glorious 25-Year Football Journey Comes to an End

14.05.2025 | Football DNA

This weekend marks the end of an era in Zambian football as veteran striker James Chamanga is set to play his final professional match when Red Arrows face off against Zanaco in the MTN Super League. The club confirmed Tuesday that the 45-year-old legend will hang up his boots after Saturday’s fixture — a game now billed as:

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐕𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐒' 𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐓 𝐅𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 – 𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐌𝐄𝐍 𝐓𝐎 𝐇𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐀 𝐓𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐀𝐘

Red Arrows Football Club will host a historic testimonial match in honour of James Chamanga — a legend, a warrior, and a leader of the Zambian game. More than just a league fixture, the clash with Zanaco is a heartfelt farewell to one of the country’s most iconic footballers.

Red Arrows vs Zanaco – The Farewell to a Hero Who Gave His All for Club & Country.

And the best part? FREE ENTRY | OPEN WING

No tickets are needed — just bring your voice, your passion, and your love for the game.

Let us give Chamanga the send-off he truly deserves!

From Mtendere to International Glory

Chamanga’s story began humbly in 2000 with Makumbi Stars in Mtendere before moving to City of Lusaka in 2002. He then played for National Assembly and later Zanaco, where he began to establish himself as a force in the local league.

In 2006, he moved to South Africa and suited up for Bush Bucks, SuperSport United, and Moroka Swallows. By 2008, he had earned a move to China, where he starred for Dalian Shide and Liaoning Hongyun, spending nearly a decade overseas.

In 2019, Chamanga returned home to join Red Arrows, and even in the twilight of his career, he led the Zambia Air Force-sponsored side to two league titles, proving age was no barrier to greatness.

AfCON Glory and National Pride

Chamanga’s career reached its zenith in 2012, when he was part of the Chipolopolo squad that won Zambia’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations. His selfless service and fighting spirit endeared him to millions of fans across the country.

A Legacy That Transcends the Pitch

Retiring at the age of 45, Chamanga closes the chapter on a remarkable 25-year career. He leaves behind a legacy defined by consistency, professionalism, and passion — a true role model for aspiring footballers.

This Saturday’s testimonial isn’t just a football match. It’s a salute to a career that touched club and country alike — a celebration of a man who gave his all, every time he stepped on the pitch.

Farewell, James Chamanga. Zambia salutes you. 🏆🇿🇲