RIP: Ex-Orlando Pirates 12 goals and 12 assist striker dies-reports

RIP: Ex-Orlando Pirates 12 goals and 12 assist striker dies-reports

Former Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City, Justin Shonga has passed away according to reports in his native Zambia.

Shonga played for four sides in South Africa, including TTM as well as Sekhukhune United besides Pirates and City.

Well travelled player former Pirates star

According to statistics, Shonga was last in action for Najran in the Saudi second division. Before  then he was with Georgian Erovnuli Liga side Gagra in 2023. There he played 16 times, netting twice. In South Africa, he arrived through Pirates ahead of the 2017-18 season. He would go on to spend three seasons at the Buccaneers, mustering 16 goals and 16 assists during that time. He then moved on a signed for a newly former TTM where scored just the one goal in seven appearances all season.

Shonga’s next destination was Cape Town City where he also spent just the solitary season without getting going. He failed to find the back of the net in 13 appearances for the Citizens. It would then be Sekhukhune who would take him up, and there his fortunes did not change significantly. He was only able to net twice in 10 appearances. That was his last appearance on South African soil.

Shonga was also a Zambia international who was capped 15 times and scored on seven occasions for his country. On Sunday evening, his untimely demise was confirmed to the Zambian FA.

Shonga’s passing confirmed

“Former Chipolopolo forward Justin Shonga has died. Zambia Police Deputy Spokesperson Dan Mwale has confirmed in an interview with the FAZ Media Team. Mwale said Shonga died at Sikanze Police Hospital after a short illness. More details will be availed in due course.” Wrote the association.

Everyone at The South African News would like to extend their condolences to the Shonga family and his loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.