Willy Chinyama

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William Chinyama (Born 18th April 1984 in Zambia) is a Zambian defender nicknamed Pastor who currently plays for ZESCO United F.C. in Zambia.He has 3 international Caps for Zambia.William Chinyama belongs to group of players who have never represented Zambia at junior level but might make one of the full back positions his own. An intelligent defender, Chinyama combines his pace with the ability to pass the ball out from the back.

Chinyama is a product of the GVM soccer academy which was founded by 1997 COSAFA Castle Cup, winning coach, the late George Mungwa. But it was at FAZ Division one side Forest Rangers that he started to realize his potential.

It did not take long before the electricity boys, ZESCO United signed him. At ‘Team Ya Ziko’, Chinyama started slowly but as season progressed he grew in stature and he earned a call up to the national team in 2007.

Chinyama conducts team prayers both at ‘Zesco’ and national team thus he’s been nicknamed as ‘Pastor’ by his teammates. The right footed defender made his international debut in the Ghana 2008 African Cup of nations qualifiers in 1-1 draw against Chad at Chililabombwe’s Konkola Stadium. His impressive display at left full back won him praise from many soccer pundits and fans. He slotted into the Zambia’s back four as though he had been playing for years at international level. The Lusaka born was dropped from the starting XI in the final match against South Africa as long serving Joseph Musonda was preferred.

Despite being the understudy to first choice full backs; Clive Hachilensa and Musonda, many see him the better of the trio.

In 2007, Chinyama helped ZESCO united win a domestic treble as they won the KCM/FAZ Premier League title, Coca Cola Cup and inaugural Barclays Cup. ‘Team Ya Ziko’ also won the season opener; the Samuel ‘Zoom’ Ndhlovu Charity shield and lost to Red Arrows in the MOSI cup final.

The 23 year old will be making his maiden appearance at the 26th edition of fAfrican Cup of Nations in Ghana.