Premier Soccer League CEO, Stan Matthews, has heaped praise on the Zambian national team after they defeated a spirited Ghana outfit to reach the final of the CAF 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
In what will be a classic West vs Southern Africa, the Zambians will take on the star-studded Cote dIvoire on Sunday evening.
Matthews acknowledged that it was a proud evening for Chipolopolo, but at the same time a significant moment for the PSL.
This as seven players in the Zambian squad ply their trade in the PSL Davies Nkausu (SuperSport United), Isaac Chansa (Orlando Pirates), Joseph Musonda (Golden Arrows), Kennedy Mweene (Free State Stars), Collins Mbesuma (Golden Arrows), Kampamba Chintu (Bidvest Wits) and Noah Chivuta (Free State Stars). The number goes to eight when including Clifford Mulenga (Bloemfontein Celtic) who was in the original squad.
The fact that it has been current and former PSL players contributing to the success of the Zambian team indicates the strength and the high standard of football in the PSL, says Matthews.
We are proud of their achievements as they have demonstrated to the continent and the world that the PSL is a competitive League to play in.
It must also be mentioned that 11 members of the Zambian Squad that will play in the final are either current PSL players or have played in the PSL before. Former players include, James Chamanga, Kanalillo Kakonje, Felix and Chris Katongo. You must add to that list Siaka Tiene of Cote dIvoire. At least one third of the composition of the two finalists have links to the PSL, explained Matthews.
This suggests without doubt that the PSL is a springboard for international and continental stardom and we must celebrate this. In terms of the final, the PSL will have the highest representation and provider of players to a team in the final, added Matthews.
