Zambian international Rodrick Kabwe has expressed his gratitude to fans in Iraq for the confidence they have shown in him after a rough patch with the national team.
He is currently on the books of Zakho Sports Club in the Iraqi Stars League. The defender joined the Asian side last summer after parting ways with South African top-flight club Shekhukhune United FC.
Recently, the former Zanaco FC star has gotten a lot of stick from Zambian fans for his subpar performances for Zambia.
The fans’ criticism got worse by the fullback’s dreadful performance at the recently concluded 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
After successfully holding on to a valuable point in the opening match against the DR Congo, the Chipolopolo needed to win against Tanzania.
Despite conceding early against the East Africans, the Copper Bullets had everything in the locker to turn around the game and secure a victory. However, things turned for the worst when Kabwe was sent off after getting a second yellow for a needless foul.
As a result, many Zambian fans blamed him for Chipolopolo’s failure to advance to the knockout stage. Some even suggested that he should be removed from the national team or stripped of his vice captaincy.
Kabwe exceptional for Zakho
In contrast, the 31-year-old has been exceptional at the back for Zakho SC this season, keeping seven (7) clean sheets from the 11 games he has started.
Zakho boasts the best defense in the Iraq Stars League. They have conceded the joint-fewest goals in the top flight (8 goals from 15 matches).
Hence, Kabwe took to his Instagram to appreciate the Zakho FC fans for the support they have given him this season. The left-back wrote, “Amazing fans of Zakho, thank you for making me feel at home…… And bringing out the best out of me coz [because] of your support.”
He will aim to replicate the consistency he has shown for his club at the national team level.
Zambia will resume their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June against Morocco.
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