Zambia’s most-capped international player and Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene has retired from football at the age of 38.
“After consulting my family and, of course, listening to my body when it tells me it’s tired, I have decided to retire from football,” said Mwene as quoted by Bolanews, adding: “To the Zambian fans, I really want to thank you for the support you gave me when I was playing for my country. I want to appreciate each and everyone who has supported me through this journey.
“Since childhood, I’ve been where I am because of the many people who supported me. I say thank you.”
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Mweene’s decision was confirmed by his South African club Mamelodi Sundowns, who tweeted: “Masandawana, Zambia, and Sundowns icon Kennedy Mweene is hanging up his gloves to pursue the next step in his illustrious football career,” adding: “A continental champion for club and country, and one of the most decorated players in South African football history.”
Known for his penalty-saving and penalty-taking abilities, Mweene retires as one of Africa’s best goalkeepers, having won the PSL Goalkeeper of the Season award in 2008-09 and the Caf Champions League and Super Cup titles once with Mamelodi Sundowns.
Since joining the Brazilians from Free States Stars on 27 June 2013, he won the South African League eight times to set the record for the most titles won by a Zambian in that league.
Mweene is also the second-highest-scoring African goalkeeper, with 13 goals, trailing Nigeria’s Vincent Enyeama, who scored 20. Prior to his retirement, Mweene began his coaching career at Sundowns. He revealed that he will continue pursuing his coaching career in South Africa.