Weekly roundup: Digital Trends
Zambia’s shining sports stars ‘light up’ social media
JULY was a special month for Zambian sports stars, as a few notable figures were hailed for their on-field exploits.
Undoubtedly, the standout headline during the month were the Shepolopolo, the country’s women national soccer team, who debuted at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and impressed various stakeholders.
Bruce Mwape’s side made their Olympic debut on Wednesday, July 21, against the Netherlands in their opening Group F fixture in Rifu. Although the Queens were destroyed 10-3 in that game, they impressed against a Chinese outfit where they picked up one point in an entertaining 4-4 draw at the Miyagi Stadium in the Japanese city of Rifu.
An astounding hat-trick from Barbra Banda during the China clash helped the Queens earn a hard-fought draw before bowing out of the competition to giants, Brazil, losing 1-0.
Their on-field exploits drew widespread attention and social media was lit up with commendation and applause for the Copper Queens who landed back in Lusaka on July 29 from the prestigious Games.
President Edgar Lungu paid glowing tribute on a great performance that did the nation proud where the Head of State took to his official Facebook page to say:
Half-way across the globe in Scotland, Rangers Football Club striker, Fashion Sakala, who scored an equaliser for his team on his debut against Spanish giants, Real Madrid, was also trending on social media.
Sakala was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from his homeland and took to social media to thank his fans and supporters. The Chipolopolo front-man looks set for a glittering career at Ibrox if he keeps match fit in a tough and competitive league.
“It was a great performance at the Olympics by our Copper Queens. Despite bowing out of the tournament, there are many positives to pick from the young ladies. One word that describes their performance today is resilience. Despite the red card and a nasty injury to our goalkeeper, the girls remained resilient against a strong opponent. You are a quintessence of hard work, which is the true Zambian spirit. You kept your chin up against the best in the world. You are world-class yourselves. Well done, girls. You have represented your country and continent well and we are proud of you,” stated President Lungu.
