Samuel Ndhlovu: Difference between revisions

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{{Featured article}}
{{Infobox football biography
{{Infobox football biography
| name          = Samuel Ndhlovu
| name          = Samuel Ndhlovu
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| death_date    = 10 October 2001 (age 64)  
| death_date    = 10 October 2001 (age 64)  
| death_place    = [[Mufulira]], [[Zambia]]
| death_place    = [[Mufulira]], [[Zambia]]
| position      = [[Forward (football)|Forward]]
| position      = Forward  
| youthyears1    =  
| youthyears1    =  
| youthclubs1    =  
| youthclubs1    =  
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| managerclubs6 = [[Zambia national football team|Zambia]]
| managerclubs6 = [[Zambia national football team|Zambia]]
| manageryears7  = 1993–1996
| manageryears7  = 1993–1996
| managerclubs7 = [[Extension Gunners|LCS Gunners]]
| managerclubs7 = LCS Gunners
| manageryears8  = 2000
| manageryears8  = 2000
| managerclubs8 = [[Mufulira Wanderers F.C.|Mufulira Wanderers]]
| managerclubs8 = [[Mufulira Wanderers F.C.|Mufulira Wanderers]]
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Ndhlovu’s eye-catching performances in the number 10 shirt for both Wanderers and Zambia made him very popular throughout the country and he was rewarded with the Zambian Sportsman of the Year award for 1964.  
Ndhlovu’s eye-catching performances in the number 10 shirt for both Wanderers and Zambia made him very popular throughout the country and he was rewarded with the Zambian Sportsman of the Year award for 1964.  


In 1965 Wanderers defeated City of Lusaka 5-2 in the Castle Cup final and this qualified them to meet the Castle Cup winners from [[Southern Rhodesia]] in the Inter-Rhodesia Castle Cup final. Apart from the prize money of £590, the match carried extra motivation as no Zambian club had won it before and a decision had been taken to do away with the cup by having one last final, after which the winners would keep the trophy for good.  
In 1965 Wanderers defeated City of Lusaka 5-2 in the Castle Cup final and this qualified them to meet the Castle Cup winners from Southern Rhodesia in the Inter-Rhodesia Castle Cup final. Apart from the prize money of £590, the match carried extra motivation as no Zambian club had won it before and a decision had been taken to do away with the cup by having one last final, after which the winners would keep the trophy for good.  


Wanderers crossed the Zambezi River to square off with City Wanderers on 17 October 1965 at Glamis Stadium in [[Salisbury]]. The final turned out to be one of the most famous matches in Zambian football history as the Mighty men lined up before a racially segregated crowd of 18,000. The Zambians took the lead with two quick goals from Willie Kunda and Elijah Mwale but City pulled a goal back through striker Kenneth Makoni. Man of the match Ndhlovu put Wanderers further ahead to leave the scores 3-1 at the break. Wanderers then allowed City back into the game when goals by captain Alan Hlathwayo and Richard Chimiya tied the score line and with extra-time looming, Mwale cut in from the left to score a late and historic winner for a final score of 4-3.<ref>Anon. "Mufulira take Castle Cup" ''Times of Zambia'', 18 October 1965 p.14</ref> Ndhlovu called winning the Super Castle Cup was one of the greatest moments of his career.<ref name=face/>
Wanderers crossed the Zambezi River to square off with City Wanderers on 17 October 1965 at Glamis Stadium in Salisbury. The final turned out to be one of the most famous matches in Zambian football history as the Mighty men lined up before a racially segregated crowd of 18,000. The Zambians took the lead with two quick goals from Willie Kunda and Elijah Mwale but City pulled a goal back through striker Kenneth Makoni. Man of the match Ndhlovu put Wanderers further ahead to leave the scores 3-1 at the break. Wanderers then allowed City back into the game when goals by captain Alan Hlathwayo and Richard Chimiya tied the score line and with extra-time looming, Mwale cut in from the left to score a late and historic winner for a final score of 4-3.<ref>Anon. "Mufulira take Castle Cup" ''Times of Zambia'', 18 October 1965 p.14</ref> Ndhlovu called winning the Super Castle Cup was one of the greatest moments of his career.<ref name=face/>


On 1 June 1966, a benefit match between Wanderers and Kitwe Sports was held in [[Kitwe]] to honour Ndhlovu’s ten years in football and he scored in the 1-1 draw. Later that month, he travelled to [[England]] for six weeks to watch the [[1966 World Cup|World Cup]] after which he attended an [[English FA]] coaching course in Durham and also trained with English First Division club [[Blackpool FC|Blackpool]]. Later that year, Wanderers retained the Castle Cup with another extra-time win over [[Kabwe Warriors]] after coming from behind twice. He scored the goal that tied the game at 3-3 and took it into extra time, and the fifth goal in a 5-3 victory in a match where Warriors curiously wore shirts with no numbers.<ref>Anon. "Wanderers keep a (shaky) grip on Castle Cup" ''Times of Zambia'', 10 October 1966 p.12</ref>
On 1 June 1966, a benefit match between Wanderers and Kitwe Sports was held in [[Kitwe]] to honour Ndhlovu’s ten years in football and he scored in the 1-1 draw. Later that month, he travelled to England for six weeks to watch the World Cup after which he attended an English FA coaching course in Durham and also trained with English First Division club Blackpool. Later that year, Wanderers retained the Castle Cup with another extra-time win over [[Kabwe Warriors]] after coming from behind twice. He scored the goal that tied the game at 3-3 and took it into extra time, and the fifth goal in a 5-3 victory in a match where Warriors curiously wore shirts with no numbers.<ref>Anon. "Wanderers keep a (shaky) grip on Castle Cup" ''Times of Zambia'', 10 October 1966 p.12</ref>


Ndlhovu had a chance to play professional football in 1967 after former Wanderers coach Doug Sammons arranged a stint for him with [[Atlanta Chiefs]] in the [[United States of America|United States]], together with [[Howard Mwikuta]], [[Freddie Mwila]] and [[Emment Kapengwe]] but he turned down the opportunity to concentrate on developing the game in Zambia, and also due to uncertainty over the legality of the league. As a consequence, the other three became Zambia’s first professionals abroad and Chiefs manager [[Phil Woosnam]] expressed his disappointment that Ndhlovu would not get to showcase his skills in the newly formed PSL, after drawing coast-to-coast press notices as a result of careful feeding by Woosnam and his publicity department.<ref>Anon. "Atlanta, Here We Come", ''Times of Zambia,'' 23 February 1967, p.12</ref>
Ndlhovu had a chance to play professional football in 1967 after former Wanderers coach Doug Sammons arranged a stint for him with Atlanta Chiefs in the United States, together with [[Howard Mwikuta]], [[Freddie Mwila]] and [[Emment Kapengwe]] but he turned down the opportunity to concentrate on developing the game in Zambia, and also due to uncertainty over the legality of the league. As a consequence, the other three became Zambia’s first professionals abroad and Chiefs manager Phil Woosnam expressed his disappointment that Ndhlovu would not get to showcase his skills in the newly formed PSL, after drawing coast-to-coast press notices as a result of careful feeding by Woosnam and his publicity department.<ref>Anon. "Atlanta, Here We Come", ''Times of Zambia,'' 23 February 1967, p.12</ref>
   
   
For such a talented player whose career spanned three decades - from the 1950s to the 70s - it was not surprising that he would go on to become the most honoured performer of his generation, making Wanderers the ‘winningest team’ in Zambian club soccer, and in the process climbing the rostrum to receive honours far more times than any other player.<ref>Liwena, Ridgeway "Samuel 'Zoom' Ndhlovu: Gentleman every bit" ''Times of Zambia'', October 2001 http://www.times.co.zm/news/viewnews.cgi?category=8&id=1003342998 (date accessed 30 January 2004)</ref>
For such a talented player whose career spanned three decades - from the 1950s to the 70s - it was not surprising that he would go on to become the most honoured performer of his generation, making Wanderers the ‘winningest team’ in Zambian club soccer, and in the process climbing the rostrum to receive honours far more times than any other player.<ref>Liwena, Ridgeway "Samuel 'Zoom' Ndhlovu: Gentleman every bit" ''Times of Zambia'', October 2001 http://www.times.co.zm/news/viewnews.cgi?category=8&id=1003342998 (date accessed 30 January 2004)</ref>
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Ndhlovu’s popularity was such that he was featured on adverts for various products and on 25 October 1973, he was bestowed with the Insignia of Honour by President [[Kenneth Kaunda]] for his service to Zambian football, the first footballer to get such an award.<ref>Liwena, 1984 p.108</ref>
Ndhlovu’s popularity was such that he was featured on adverts for various products and on 25 October 1973, he was bestowed with the Insignia of Honour by President [[Kenneth Kaunda]] for his service to Zambian football, the first footballer to get such an award.<ref>Liwena, 1984 p.108</ref>


Ndhlovu was still playing for Wanderers in 1975 as player-coach, scoring in a 1-1 draw with [[Uganda]]’s Express in the East and Central Africa Club championship in [[Kampala]] though he did not feature much in Wanderers line-up after that. In September of that same year the Wanderers maestro made another appearance when his experience was called upon in the African Club Champions cup quarter-final against [[Tonnerre Yaounde]] of [[Cameroun]] but his presence did not help as Wanderers lost the first leg 1-0 on a goal by [[Roger Milla]] in [[Yaounde]] and were eliminated 3-2 on aggregate.<ref>Anon. "Wanderers go down to Cameroun champions" ''Times of Zambia'', 16 September 1975 p.10</ref><ref>Kanyanta, George. "Wanderers bow out" ''Times of Zambia'', 29 September 1975 p.10</ref>
Ndhlovu was still playing for Wanderers in 1975 as player-coach, scoring in a 1-1 draw with Uganda’s Express in the East and Central Africa Club championship in Kampala though he did not feature much in Wanderers line-up after that. In September of that same year the Wanderers maestro made another appearance when his experience was called upon in the African Club Champions cup quarter-final against Tonnerre Yaounde of Cameroun but his presence did not help as Wanderers lost the first leg 1-0 on a goal by Roger Milla in Yaounde and were eliminated 3-2 on aggregate.<ref>Anon. "Wanderers go down to Cameroun champions" ''Times of Zambia'', 16 September 1975 p.10</ref><ref>Kanyanta, George. "Wanderers bow out" ''Times of Zambia'', 29 September 1975 p.10</ref>


After a long career spanning three decades, Ndhlovu finally called time on his career and concentrated on coaching.
After a long career spanning three decades, Ndhlovu finally called time on his career and concentrated on coaching.


==National Team==
==National Team==
Ndhlovu first featured for Northern Rhodesia in 1956, making his debut against a [[Congo DR|Congolese]] Select side as an eighteen yearold. Although there were strong protests against his selection as people felt he was too young, he scored two goals in a match which he described as though he were playing in a dream.<ref name=priest/> He was in the [[Zambia national football team|Zambian national team]] at independence in October 1964 and was reported to have made more appearances than any other Zambian player at the time. He won the [[Kenya]] Republic Cup in 1964, the Rothmans International trophy against [[Kenya national football team|Kenya]] in 1965 and the Heroes Cup against [[Uganda national football team|Uganda]] in 1968.  
Ndhlovu first featured for Northern Rhodesia in 1956, making his debut against a Congolese Select side as an eighteen yearold. Although there were strong protests against his selection as people felt he was too young, he scored two goals in a match which he described as though he were playing in a dream.<ref name=priest/> He was in the [[Zambia national football team|Zambian national team]] at independence in October 1964 and was reported to have made more appearances than any other Zambian player at the time. He won the Kenya Republic Cup in 1964, the Rothmans International trophy against Kenya in 1965 and the Heroes Cup against Uganda in 1968.  


He was made Zambian captain in 1965, replacing [[Jackie Sewell]]. In June 1967 he was succeeded by [[Dickson Makwaza]] as captain and in December of the same year was handed coaching duties, leading Zambia to a victorious Jamhuri Cup outing in Kenya as player-coach.<ref name=jamhuri>Liwena, 2006 p.50</ref>  
He was made Zambian captain in 1965, replacing Jackie Sewell. In June 1967 he was succeeded by [[Dickson Makwaza]] as captain and in December of the same year was handed coaching duties, leading Zambia to a victorious Jamhuri Cup outing in Kenya as player-coach.<ref name=jamhuri>Liwena, 2006 p.50</ref>  


He however made a comeback for the national team in December 1968 in a CAN 1970 qualifier against [[Mauritius]] in [[Port Louis]] after Zambia drew the first leg 2-2 in [[Lusaka]]. Zambia won 3-2 and qualified to the next round where they faced [[Cameroun]].
He however made a comeback for the national team in December 1968 in a CAN 1970 qualifier against Mauritius in Port Louis after Zambia drew the first leg 2-2 in [[Lusaka]]. Zambia won 3-2 and qualified to the next round where they faced Cameroun.


Yet again Zambia could only settle for a 2-2 home draw with Ndhlovu scoring the opening goal. They lost the return leg 2-1 in Yaounde and it proved to be Ndhlovu’s last game for his country. Immediately upon arrival from Cameroun, it was reported that Ndhlovu’s conduct during a reception for the team after the match had upset the [[Football Association of Zambia]] ([[Football Association of Zambia|FAZ]]) officials and he was suspended from national team matches for the rest of the year and fined.<ref>Equamo, Sam "Musakanya out – Zoom banned, fined in FAZ shake-up" ''Zambia Mail'' 16 August 1969 p.16</ref>
Yet again Zambia could only settle for a 2-2 home draw with Ndhlovu scoring the opening goal. They lost the return leg 2-1 in Yaounde and it proved to be Ndhlovu’s last game for his country. Immediately upon arrival from Cameroun, it was reported that Ndhlovu’s conduct during a reception for the team after the match had upset the [[Football Association of Zambia]] ([[Football Association of Zambia|FAZ]]) officials and he was suspended from national team matches for the rest of the year and fined.<ref>Equamo, Sam "Musakanya out – Zoom banned, fined in FAZ shake-up" ''Zambia Mail'' 16 August 1969 p.16</ref>
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Ndhlovu got involved in coaching at Wanderers from as early as 1966 when he became player coach replacing Harry McQuillan. From then on, he was involved as player-coach, coach or technical advisor.
Ndhlovu got involved in coaching at Wanderers from as early as 1966 when he became player coach replacing Harry McQuillan. From then on, he was involved as player-coach, coach or technical advisor.


Ndhlovu was first appointed national team trainer in 1967 for a trip to [[Tanzania]] in July but was unable to make the trip due to work commitments. He however first handled the national team in December of the same year during the Jamhuri tournament against Kenya in [[Nairobi]], at the age of 30 making him the youngest coach to take charge of Zambia in a full international match. Zambia won the two match series 5-1 and 4-3.<ref name=jamhuri/> Ndhlovu also took charge of Zambia as player-coach for a trip to Uganda in October the following year.<ref>Anon. "Uganda tour: the official team" ''Times of Zambia'' 7 September 1968 p.12</ref>
Ndhlovu was first appointed national team trainer in 1967 for a trip to Tanzania in July but was unable to make the trip due to work commitments. He however first handled the national team in December of the same year during the Jamhuri tournament against Kenya in Nairobi, at the age of 30 making him the youngest coach to take charge of Zambia in a full international match. Zambia won the two match series 5-1 and 4-3.<ref name=jamhuri/> Ndhlovu also took charge of Zambia as player-coach for a trip to Uganda in October the following year.<ref>Anon. "Uganda tour: the official team" ''Times of Zambia'' 7 September 1968 p.12</ref>
   
   
He was appointed national player-coach again when a team was assembled to play [[Congo DR]] in [[Kinshasa]]. This invitation coincided with the visit of Russian team Leningrad Zeniths. FAZ officials accepted the Congolese offer and decided to send an under-strength team to Kinshasa. The result was Zambia’s heaviest defeat on 22 November 1969 with Congo romping to a 10-1 victory. Ndhlovu said this was the worst game of his career and he was so shattered that he could not eat after the game.<ref name=priest/>
He was appointed national player-coach again when a team was assembled to play Congo DR in Kinshasa. This invitation coincided with the visit of Russian team Leningrad Zeniths. FAZ officials accepted the Congolese offer and decided to send an under-strength team to Kinshasa. The result was Zambia’s heaviest defeat on 22 November 1969 with Congo romping to a 10-1 victory. Ndhlovu said this was the worst game of his career and he was so shattered that he could not eat after the game.<ref name=priest/>


During the seventies, he was Wanderers Technical Advisor as the coaching role changed from George Sikazwe to Makwaza and in 1982 he took over as coach after Makwaza resigned. He went on to nurture players like [[Ashols Melu]], [[Efford Chabala]], [[Kalusha Bwalya]], [[Charles Musonda]] and [[Johnson Bwalya]]. He was also the assistant coach to [[Bill McGarry]], [[Wieslaw Grawboski]] and [[Geoff Butler]] and when the Zambia Football Coaches Association (ZAFCA) was formed, he was elected chairman.  
During the seventies, he was Wanderers Technical Advisor as the coaching role changed from George Sikazwe to Makwaza and in 1982 he took over as coach after Makwaza resigned. He went on to nurture players like [[Ashols Melu]], [[Efford Chabala]], [[Kalusha Bwalya]], [[Charles Musonda]] and [[Johnson Bwalya]]. He was also the assistant coach to Bill McGarry, Wieslaw Grawboski and Geoff Butler and when the Zambia Football Coaches Association (ZAFCA) was formed, he was elected chairman.  


He succeeded Butler as Overseer for Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines (ZCCM) sponsored club coaches in February 1987and did a lot to motivate many local coaches. He commanded a lot of respect from players and fellow coaches and was called ‘Sir Zoom.’<ref name=face/>
He succeeded Butler as Overseer for Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines (ZCCM) sponsored club coaches in February 1987and did a lot to motivate many local coaches. He commanded a lot of respect from players and fellow coaches and was called ‘Sir Zoom.’<ref name=face/>


After Zambia performed disastrously at the [[1986 African Cup of Nations|CAN ‘86]] and Coach Brightwell Banda was sidelined, Ndhlovu took over the reins. His first game was an [[All Africa Games]] qualifier against [[Malawi national football team|Malawi]] in April 1987 in Lusaka which Zambia won 3-1.  
After Zambia performed disastrously at the CAN ‘86 and Coach Brightwell Banda was sidelined, Ndhlovu took over the reins. His first game was an All Africa Games qualifier against Malawi in April 1987 in Lusaka which Zambia won 3-1.  


Ndhlovu guided Zambia to the [[Seoul Olympic Games]] in [[Zambia at the 1988 Summer Olympics|1988]] after a 2-1 aggregate win over [[Ghana national football team|Ghana]]. At the games Zambia found itself in a group with Italy, Venezuela and Iraq, where they thought to have little chance of progressing. Zambia defied the odds by topping the group to make it to the quarter-finals after beating both Italy and Venezuela by 4-0 score-lines. They however lost in the quarter-finals to West Germany by the same margin.
Ndhlovu guided Zambia to the Seoul Olympic Games in [[Zambia at the 1988 Summer Olympics|1988]] after a 2-1 aggregate win over Ghana. At the games Zambia found itself in a group with Italy, Venezuela and Iraq, where they thought to have little chance of progressing. Zambia defied the odds by topping the group to make it to the quarter-finals after beating both Italy and Venezuela by 4-0 score-lines. They however lost in the quarter-finals to West Germany by the same margin.


Ndhlovu was a proponent of the attacking game and under him Zambia recorded impressive results. He had an exceptional home record but his [[Achilles’ heel]] was that he could never get a result away from home when it really mattered.  
Ndhlovu was a proponent of the attacking game and under him Zambia recorded impressive results. He had an exceptional home record but his Achilles’ heel was that he could never get a result away from home when it really mattered.  


After the Olympic Games, many expected Zambia to qualify to [[1990 World Cup|Italia ‘90]] but it was not to be as the team won all its home games but failed to collect a single point on the road. The disappointment of missing out on the World Cup was put behind them at [[1990 African Cup of Nations|CAN ‘90]] in Algeria where Zambia finished third.
After the Olympic Games, many expected Zambia to qualify to 1990 World Cup|Italia ‘90 but it was not to be as the team won all its home games but failed to collect a single point on the road. The disappointment of missing out on the World Cup was put behind them at CAN ‘90 in Algeria where Zambia finished third.


Ndhlovu won the [[SADCC Cup]] with Zambia, beating [[Zimbabwe]] 3-1 in Gaborone in August 1990 and he led Zambia to a CECAFA Cup victory in [[Uganda]] the following year.<ref>Anon. "Zambia lifts SADCC Cup" ''Sunday Times of Zambia'', 26 August 1990 p.10</ref>
Ndhlovu won the SADCC Cup with Zambia, beating Zimbabwe 3-1 in Gaborone in August 1990 and he led Zambia to a CECAFA Cup victory in Uganda the following year.<ref>Anon. "Zambia lifts SADCC Cup" ''Sunday Times of Zambia'', 26 August 1990 p.10</ref>


At the [[1992 African Cup of Nations|1992 Cup of Nations]] Zambia disappointed yet again, losing in the quarter-finals to eventual winners Côte d'Ivoire and the team arrived home to a barrage of criticism with fans calling for his resignation. One accusation levelled at him was that he favoured certain local players at the expense of one or two European based professionals. Ndhlovu appealed for calm and reminded fans that 'emotions never win a war.'<ref>Chirwa, Dingi "Why I won't quit - 'Zoom'" ''The Weekly Post'', 7–13 February 1992 p.19</ref> "Fans must appreciate in football there are losses, wins and defeats. Even if you bring an angel Zambia will experience defeat one time or another." He refused to step down saying he was the best man for the job and resisted calls for German coach Jochen Figge, who at the time was attached to the Ministry of Sport as a Development Officer, to join the squad.<ref>Anon. "I can’t work with Figge – Zoom" ''Times of Zambia'', 2 July 1992 p.12</ref> Ndhlovu later relented and said he was ready to work with Figge who politely declined.<ref>Mulwanda, Gerald "Figge refuses post" ''Times of Zambia'', 11 July 1992 p.12</ref>
At the 1992 Cup of Nations Zambia disappointed yet again, losing in the quarter-finals to eventual winners Côte d'Ivoire and the team arrived home to a barrage of criticism with fans calling for his resignation. One accusation levelled at him was that he favoured certain local players at the expense of one or two European based professionals. Ndhlovu appealed for calm and reminded fans that 'emotions never win a war.'<ref>Chirwa, Dingi "Why I won't quit - 'Zoom'" ''The Weekly Post'', 7–13 February 1992 p.19</ref> "Fans must appreciate in football there are losses, wins and defeats. Even if you bring an angel Zambia will experience defeat one time or another." He refused to step down saying he was the best man for the job and resisted calls for German coach Jochen Figge, who at the time was attached to the Ministry of Sport as a Development Officer, to join the squad.<ref>Anon. "I can’t work with Figge – Zoom" ''Times of Zambia'', 2 July 1992 p.12</ref> Ndhlovu later relented and said he was ready to work with Figge who politely declined.<ref>Mulwanda, Gerald "Figge refuses post" ''Times of Zambia'', 11 July 1992 p.12</ref>


The criticism against him continued until he suddenly announced his resignation in July 1992, citing criticism from the media and lack of appreciation from fans. He was particularly incensed by a popular radio programme which questioned his reluctance to step aside and give chance to others.<ref>Mulwanda, Gerald & Musunka, Martin "‘Zoom’ calls it quits" ''Times of Zambia'', 16 July 1992 p.12</ref>
The criticism against him continued until he suddenly announced his resignation in July 1992, citing criticism from the media and lack of appreciation from fans. He was particularly incensed by a popular radio programme which questioned his reluctance to step aside and give chance to others.<ref>Mulwanda, Gerald & Musunka, Martin "‘Zoom’ calls it quits" ''Times of Zambia'', 16 July 1992 p.12</ref>


This left the FAZ in a quandary and when Zambia kicked off the [[1994 African Cup of Nations|1994 Nations Cup]] qualifiers unconvincingly with Figge as Technical Advisor and Simutowe as coach, struggling to overcome [[Mauritius national football team|Mauritius]] 2-1 at home and defeating newcomers [[South Africa national football team|South Africa]] 1-0 in [[Johannesburg]], Ndhlovu bounced back into the saddle for the [[1994 World Cup]] qualifiers with a convincing 2-0 home victory against [[Tanzania national football team|Tanzania]] in Lusaka and a 4-0 win over [[Namibia]] in [[Windhoek]].<ref>Anon. "FAZ recalls Zoom" ''Times of Zambia'', 20 September 1992 p.12</ref> He also led Zambia to third place at that year’s [[CECAFA]] tournament with an 8-0 thumping of [[Zanzibar national football team|Zanzibar]] along the way. However a 2-0 loss away to [[Madagascar national football team|Madagascar]] in a World Cup qualifier in December 1992 spelt the end of his reign as coach, only finding out when the FAZ announced in the press that he had been sacked and replaced with a new coaching team of Simwala, [[Godfrey Chitalu]] and [[Alex Chola]]. He said he was not surprised with the move charging that his dismissal was a fulfilment of a campaign pledge by the newly elected FAZ executive.<ref>Anon. "It’s a vendetta cries ‘Zoom’" ''Times of Zambia'' 8 January 1993 p.14</ref>
This left the FAZ in a quandary and when Zambia kicked off the 1994 Nations Cup qualifiers unconvincingly with Figge as Technical Advisor and Simutowe as coach, struggling to overcome Mauritius 2-1 at home and defeating newcomers South Africa 1-0 in Johannesburg, Ndhlovu bounced back into the saddle for the 1994 World Cup qualifiers with a convincing 2-0 home victory against Tanzania in Lusaka and a 4-0 win over Namibia in Windhoek.<ref>Anon. "FAZ recalls Zoom" ''Times of Zambia'', 20 September 1992 p.12</ref> He also led Zambia to third place at that year’s CECAFA tournament with an 8-0 thumping of Zanzibar along the way. However a 2-0 loss away to Madagascar in a World Cup qualifier in December 1992 spelt the end of his reign as coach, only finding out when the FAZ announced in the press that he had been sacked and replaced with a new coaching team of Simwala, [[Godfrey Chitalu]] and [[Alex Chola]]. He said he was not surprised with the move charging that his dismissal was a fulfilment of a campaign pledge by the newly elected FAZ executive.<ref>Anon. "It’s a vendetta cries ‘Zoom’" ''Times of Zambia'' 8 January 1993 p.14</ref>


Ndhlovu then packed his bags and headed for Lobatse in [[Botswana]] where he took charge of one of the country’s top clubs [[Extension Gunners|LCS Gunners]]. As a consequence, he was not with the Zambian squad during the fateful flight in April 1993 when the whole team was wiped out in the [[Gabon disaster]]. He heard of the plane crash in Botswana and reflected that he would have been on that aircraft had he not decided to come to Botswana after falling out with the FAZ officials. "I do not know whether I should say I am lucky, but because I had disagreements with those fellows, I decided to come here to take up an appointment as Lobatse Extension Gunners coach," he said.<ref>Mulenga, Alfred. "Zambia's horror hour revisited" ''Mmegi'' 17 February 2012, http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=8&aid=574&dir=2012/February/Friday17 (date accessed 9 July 2012)</ref> He went on to win the league with the Gunners in 1994 and returned home in 1996 when he decided not to renew his contract.<ref>Molwane, Tshepo. "Can Gunners vie for top honours this season?" ''Mmegi'', 16 October 2009 http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=8&aid=58&dir=2009/October/Friday16 (date accessed 10 June 2012)</ref>  
Ndhlovu then packed his bags and headed for Lobatse in Botswana where he took charge of one of the country’s top clubs LCS Gunners. As a consequence, he was not with the Zambian squad during the fateful flight in April 1993 when the whole team was wiped out in the [[Gabon disaster]]. He heard of the plane crash in Botswana and reflected that he would have been on that aircraft had he not decided to come to Botswana after falling out with the FAZ officials. "I do not know whether I should say I am lucky, but because I had disagreements with those fellows, I decided to come here to take up an appointment as Lobatse Extension Gunners coach," he said.<ref>Mulenga, Alfred. "Zambia's horror hour revisited" ''Mmegi'' 17 February 2012, http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=8&aid=574&dir=2012/February/Friday17 (date accessed 9 July 2012)</ref> He went on to win the league with the Gunners in 1994 and returned home in 1996 when he decided not to renew his contract.<ref>Molwane, Tshepo. "Can Gunners vie for top honours this season?" ''Mmegi'', 16 October 2009 http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=8&aid=58&dir=2009/October/Friday16 (date accessed 10 June 2012)</ref>  
   
   
Ndhlovu, who worked as a Community Development Officer and then as Chief Community Development Officer for [[Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines]] (ZCCM) in Mufulira was not for the idea of being employed as full-time coach and he rendered his services to the nation on secondment from ZCCM.
Ndhlovu, who worked as a Community Development Officer and then as Chief Community Development Officer for [[Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines]] (ZCCM) in Mufulira was not for the idea of being employed as full-time coach and he rendered his services to the nation on secondment from ZCCM.
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During his time as coach from 1987-1992 he was in charge of Zambia for more matches than any other coach, suffering only 1 home defeat in a 2-1 loss to Egypt in December 1988 in Kitwe and won all his competitive home games. Of the 22 home matches he won 19 drew 2 and lost 1. Of the 66 games played away from home, Zambia won 28 times, drew 16 and lost 22. He had a win rate of 53%.
During his time as coach from 1987-1992 he was in charge of Zambia for more matches than any other coach, suffering only 1 home defeat in a 2-1 loss to Egypt in December 1988 in Kitwe and won all his competitive home games. Of the 22 home matches he won 19 drew 2 and lost 1. Of the 66 games played away from home, Zambia won 28 times, drew 16 and lost 22. He had a win rate of 53%.
   
   
However, he made another comeback but this time as Technical Advisor when in November 1996, the Government and the FAZ could not reach an agreement with [[Roald Poulsen]] over a new contract and Freddie Mwila was appointed coach. The duo’s reign was short-lived as they resigned on 11 April 1997 when Zambia failed to beat [[Congo DR national team|Zaire]] in a World Cup qualifier, drawing 2-2 in [[Harare]].<ref>Mulwanda, Gerald and Kayira, Victor "Mwila, Ndhlovu resign" ''Times of Zambia'' 12 April 1997 p.8</ref> George Mungwa took over as caretaker coach but he could not save Zambia’s campaign as South Africa grabbed the only ticket to [[1998 World Cup|France ‘98]] in the group.
However, he made another comeback but this time as Technical Advisor when in November 1996, the Government and the FAZ could not reach an agreement with Roald Poulsen over a new contract and Freddie Mwila was appointed coach. The duo’s reign was short-lived as they resigned on 11 April 1997 when Zambia failed to beat Zaire in a World Cup qualifier, drawing 2-2 in Harare.<ref>Mulwanda, Gerald and Kayira, Victor "Mwila, Ndhlovu resign" ''Times of Zambia'' 12 April 1997 p.8</ref> George Mungwa took over as caretaker coach but he could not save Zambia’s campaign as South Africa grabbed the only ticket to France ‘98 in the group.


Ndhlovu then went back to Mufulira to help out at Wanderers and took a low profile until 2000 when he contested the FAZ presidency but lost to Evaristo Kasunga by a landslide margin. He returned to Wanderers as coach and cleared out most of the old guard in preference for youth and paid the price when Wanderers were thrashed 5-0 at home by [[Zanaco]] in the first game of the season. When Wanderers’ went 9 games without a win, he was relieved of his duties and replaced by George Lwandamina. At the end of the season, Wanderers were relegated from the Premier league but were saved by a boardroom decision when Rail Express FC, one of the teams that finished above them was disbanded so they continued in the top league.<ref>Kachingwe, Chris & Kambikambi, Yuyo "FAZ saves ‘Mighty’" ''Times of Zambia'' 24 January 2001 p.12</ref>
Ndhlovu then went back to Mufulira to help out at Wanderers and took a low profile until 2000 when he contested the FAZ presidency but lost to Evaristo Kasunga by a landslide margin. He returned to Wanderers as coach and cleared out most of the old guard in preference for youth and paid the price when Wanderers were thrashed 5-0 at home by [[Zanaco]] in the first game of the season. When Wanderers’ went 9 games without a win, he was relieved of his duties and replaced by George Lwandamina. At the end of the season, Wanderers were relegated from the Premier league but were saved by a boardroom decision when Rail Express FC, one of the teams that finished above them was disbanded so they continued in the top league.<ref>Kachingwe, Chris & Kambikambi, Yuyo "FAZ saves ‘Mighty’" ''Times of Zambia'' 24 January 2001 p.12</ref>
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==See also==
==See also==
* [[Zambian Cup]]
* [[Zambian Cup]]
* [[Cup of Zimbabwe]]


==Notes==
==Notes==
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[[Category:People from Mufulira]]
[[Category:People from Mufulira]]
[[Category:Zambian footballers]]
[[Category:Zambian footballers]]
[[Category:Zambia international footballers]]
[[Category:People of Zambia]]
[[Category:Zambia national football team managers]]
[[Category:Zambian football managers]]
[[Category:Zambian football managers]]
[[Category:People from Luanshya]]
[[Category:People from Luanshya]]
[[Category:1990 African Cup of Nations managers]]
[[Category:1992 African Cup of Nations managers]]