We keep trying to tell the public that while foreign media is focused on Nicolas Anelka, there are plenty of exciting imports in the Chinese Super League. Christopher Katongo proved how good he really is, leading Zambia to the African Cup of Nations title over the weekend. Katongo captained Zambia, scored three goals during the tournament, and earned MVP (Man of the Competition) honors during the tournament.
Katongo was acquired by Henan Construction during the summer transfer window, one of the players, alongside Marcos Flores, who were part of the club’s desperate attempt to avoid the drop. It was a successful gambit, as the club quickly moved out of the relegation zone and finished safely in 13th place. Katongo provided two goals along the way and set up a number more.
With Katongo, Flores, and Netto, Henan put together an exciting attack trio, with Yang Zhi out, they have the league’s best goaltender in Zeng Cheng, and they signed Zhao Peng to a massive, multi-year deal keeping him in Zhengzhou. Nobody’s going to be slating Henan as a contender for a Champions League spot, but they should be a solid, midtable side who may even be able to pull off a few upsets. Katongo is surely going to be pumped up when he returns to Henan for the start of the season. Congratulations to him and his Zambia side for their amazing run through the competition!
by bcheng
