In the vast landscape of African football, there are few more moving and inspiring stories of Chris and Felix Katongo.
Trained on the bustling streets of Muhuluira, Zambia, the brothers passed through the national football class.
Over time they became more than a teammate – a golden generation pillar and a symbol of dreams that came true.
Their defining moment? The 2012 Totalenergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations faced the Powhouse Côte D’Ivoire in a final that was as emotional as the historic. For the world, Zambia wrote one of the most beautiful stories in African football.
For Katongos, it was an even deeper victory – the culmination of a brotherly milestone and a shared journey through challenges, expectations and pressure.
In this joint interview, the brothers shared their parallel careers, memories of the national jersey, the strength of their family bonds, and their hopes to pass on that collective energy to future generations.
With honesty, anecdotes and vision, Chris and Felix Katongo get rare glimpses into the meaning of playing, winning and dreaming as a family.
Cafonline.com: What were your first memories together on the pitch?
Felix: My first real memory goes back to the match against Green Buffalo with Concola’s blade. I came and changed courses in the game. That’s where I really became more visible.
Chris: I remember doing everything I could to help him fit in. It was easy as our team had a family spirit. When he joined the national team a year later in 2004, I was proud.
And how did your family react to seeing you both play for the national team?
Felix: They were incredibly happy. We received a lot of encouragement.
Chris: Especially our Father – he may rest in peace. He saw his dream come true through us. It was a source of great pride for the whole family.
Felix, did having your brother on the national team help you merge?
Felix: Not particularly so. I already knew many players on the U-20 and U-23 teams. I didn’t receive any special treatment.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of playing with your siblings?
Chris: The downside is that when your brother makes a mistake, you feel even more pressure. But I was lucky – he also gave me some great assists. I remember playing Ghana in my first match at Levimwanawasa Stadium in the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers.
Felix: With Chris there he pushed me forward to raise my game. But if one of us had a bad day, the other also felt criticism.
How did it strengthen your sibling bond?
Chris: I was the captain, so I had to give an example. I fixed him as needed, but always tried to be fair. It brought us closer.
Felix: We spent a lot of time together on and off the pitch. It really solidified our relationship.
How did your relationship impact your team, especially during AFCON 2012?
Felix: Our performance had a positive impact. The team knew they could make a difference together.
Chris: We talked about more than just football. We laughed and spent time in my room. I still remember a pass from Felix in the final – I almost scored! He still teases me about it.
Have you ever imagined that you would become African champions together?
Felix: Honestly, no. I dreamed of winning AFCON, but I wasn’t necessarily with my brother.
Chris: I did it. “If it’s not now, it’s never going to happen.”
What does it mean to win a title together?
Felix: It was huge – a historic moment to share with your brother.
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Chris: Pride that cannot be expressed in words. Zambia has always had brothers in the national team, the brothers of Rota, and the Bhawariya… We continued that tradition.
Want to relive one moment from AFCON 2012?
Felix: I held him down two Koiboria defenders on the right wing.
Chris: And he’s accusing me of not scoring yet, so I could have avoided a penalty shootout! (lol)
Chris, you’ve been selected as a player in the tournament. Felix, what did you think?
Felix: He deserves it. He worked hard throughout the tournament. I was very proud of him.
What is your dream today?
Felix: To build a sustainable business, become a top coach like the Egyptian brothers Hosam and nurture young talent in Zambia.
Chris: Assuming Zambia’s free agency role – and perhaps one day, a national team coach.
