The soccer fraternity in the country, is greatly shocked after learning about the death of the talented junior Flames player, Abel Mwakilama, who until his death on Friday, was playing for Sporting Club de Esmoriz in Portugal.

The 18 year old star, is reportedly to have died of cerebral malaria at a hospital in Portugal.

A renowned soccer coach and commentator in the country, Enosi Chatama, expressed shock over the demise of the youngster saying the nation has lost a unique talent for the future senior national team.

“He was a budding star for the future senior national team and was not only talented but also humble and eager to learn, ever since I have known him in 2014.

“I also remember his wonderful services he rendered to the nation during the 2016 Cosafa under 20 youth championship in Rustenburg, South Africa, when I was assistant coach for the team,” said Chatama.

Abel Mwakilama’s talent came into the limelight in 2016 after scoring more than 30 goals to help Chitipa United to graduate into TNM Super league.

In Portugal, he has managed to score 7 goals in 5 games.

Mwakilama was recently called for duties to travel with the Junior Flames to Swaziland for the Africa Cup Nations second-leg preliminary round match against Swaziland on Sunday, but his Portuguese side refused to release him as the club was in dire need of his services.