Patrick Gondwe to represent Africa at CD Numancia trial

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Patrick Gondwe of Zambia receives Player of the Tournament award from Danny Jordan during the 2019 COSAFA U20 Final match between South Africa and Zambia at the Nkoloma Stadium, Lusaka on the 14 December 2019 ©Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

The relationship between LaLiga, top Spanish football league, and COSAFA (Council of Southern Africa Football Associations) has been a notable one thanks to their efforts in empowering young, up-and-coming football stars. Through various CSI and developmental initiatives, the two powerhouses continue to present countries in Sub-Saharan Africa with opportunities to identify true football talents and reward them accordingly.

The most recent initiative took place in Zambia at the COSAFA Under-20 Championship, last December. The tournament witnessed plenty of talented players compete for the coveted youth title, plus the opportunity to attend a week-long trial at the Spanish second-tier club, CD Numancia, and test their skills against some of Spain’s most prolific young footballers.

CD Numancia’s impressive sporting model has led to the club being recognised as somewhat of an exceptional case within football. Known for its integrated approach in practice, the team has managed to triumph over tactical objectives and achieved consistency in play.

What’s more, the Numantinos A side, who are currently in LaLiga SmartBank – which is LaLiga’s second division – can also be watched on the LaLiga YouTube Channel for no additional charge.

The team is made up of a combination of international players that are recruited through trials in Soria and the LaLiga Spanish academy players aspiring to climb the rank, namely CD Numancia B.

The purpose of these trials was to find the best in international talent for the Numancia main team, who are currently 7th on the Segunda División log standings. Those who showed the most promise would then be promoted to the first- or second-team trials.

Following the COSAFA tournament, Marcos Pelegrín, LaLiga South Africa Managing Director commented, “LaLiga will continue to advocate change in Africa. Enabled through partnerships like these, we intend to empower and develop many aspects of football in the region.”

Amidst the talent scouts and delegates, one clear player stood out. Zambia Super League and Nkana FC footballer, Patrick Gondwe. The Zambian national U-20 team footballer proved to be well-equipped, so much so, that he was recognised as the player of the tournament.

“This achievement illustrates what hard work and dedication can accomplish,” said Gondwe after being crowned the winner of the COSAFA U-20 Championship. “This is a life-changing opportunity – one that I don’t intend to let slip through my fingers.”

First- and second-team trials will run until 3 February 2020, after which Patrick will return to Nkana FC to await the feedback from Numancia.

This initiative is one such example of LaLiga’s continued commitment to sports development at a local level. This, especially true in terms of creating opportunities for young hopefuls to develop their skills and efforts to empower the youth.