Johnson Shumba, the young goalkeeper for Lusumbami FC, has passed away after a severe collision during a match.
Shumba, who was believed to be in his 20s, died early Wednesday morning at Mpilo Hospital. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by Lusumbami FC through their official social media channels.
The incident occurred during a competitive game against Hwange FC Reserves in the Matabeleland North Province Division Two League. Shumba sustained critical injuries in a clash with an opponent, which ultimately led to his untimely death.
Lusumbami FC expressed their profound sorrow, stating:
“On a sad note, our goalkeeper Johnson Shumba passed on this morning at Mpilo Hospital. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Shumba family, the football community, and the Lusumbami community.”
This tragedy echoes a similar event from 2022, when Emanuel Tshuma, a 21-year-old striker for Tramus, also lost his life due to a severe injury sustained during a match.
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Tshuma’s injury, which occurred during a collision with an opponent’s goalkeeper, led to internal complications. Despite awaiting emergency surgery in Bulawayo, Tshuma passed away before the procedure could be performed.
The local football community in Victoria Falls mourned Tshuma’s loss deeply, remembering him as a promising talent. Tramus team manager Ndlovu recounted the tragic circumstances:
“The boy suffered a serious injury that affected him internally. Despite our best efforts and awaiting surgery, he passed away before the doctors could intervene.”
Casper Mdladlazeli, Tshuma’s former coach at Corinthians, reflected on the impact of Tshuma’s death, noting the significant loss to both the community and the football world.
The recent events underscore the inherent risks in competitive sports and the profound impact such tragedies have on families and local communities.
