Born on December 11, 1984, Kennedy Mweene is a former Zambian footballer known for his goalkeeping prowess and remarkable ability to save and take penalties.
His club career primarily unfolded in South African Premier Soccer League clubs, notably Free State Stars and Mamelodi Sundowns.
On the international stage, Mweene holds the distinction of being Zambia’s most-capped player, donning the national colours more than 120 times.
Mweene carved a niche as one of Africa’s top goalkeepers. Since conceding a penalty to Samuel Eto’o at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, he went on to save every penalty faced while representing Zambia.
Making his debut in 2004, Mweene has been the preferred goalkeeper for Zambia, participating in key tournaments such as the 2006, 2008, 2010, and 2012 African Nations Cup.
A significant highlight occurred on February 12, 2012, when Mweene not only kept a clean sheet in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations Final but also saved a penalty kick and successfully converted his own in the shootout, leading Zambia to victory.
This outstanding performance earned him the title of goalkeeper of the tournament.
In the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, Mweene showcased his penalty-taking skills by converting a crucial late penalty, securing a 1–1 draw against Nigeria.
This made him the first and only goalkeeper to score a goal at the continental showpiece. Additionally, he saved two penalties during the tournament.
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In 2015, Mweene participated in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Equatorial Guinea – the 30th edition of the tournament.
His illustrious playing career concluded in July 2023 when he decided to retire.
Soon after, he joined the coaching staff of Mamelodi Sundowns, focusing on nurturing the club’s goalkeepers, under the guidance of head coach Rhulani Mokwena.
