MARGAO
Former Nigerian footballer-turned-priest Chibuzor Nwakanma who donned the colours of Churchill Brothers and, was one of Kolkata Maidan’s favourites in the 1980s and 90s, passed away on Friday. He was 55.
The diminutive forward who played for East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and Mohammedan Sporting, died after a suspected cardiac arrest at his residence in Aba, Nigeria, according to former teammate, Emeka Ezeugo.
The Nigerian forward came to India in the early 80s as a student but soon caught the eyes of the football scouts for his excellent abilities. Chibuzor made his way to Kolkata on the advice of his friend Chima Okorie, who then was an established star with Mohammedan Sporting. Chibuzor joined East Bengal in 1986 and soon became a hit for his searing speed and excellent control that would make the opposition defence cringe.
“He finished his usual morning walk, came back, slumped and died,” Emeka wrote in a Facebook post. Emeka had formed a partnership with Chibuzor during their days at DAV College in Chandigarh before they moved to Calcutta.
Having come to study in Chandigarh’s DAV College, along with Emeka and Christopher Kem, the Nigerian trio excelled during the 1985 All-India Inter-University Championship for Punjab University. Chibuzor was picked by East Bengal the following year and then moved to Mohammedan Sporting (1987 to 1991). He wore the Mohun Bagan shirt from 1993-95. He scored more than 160 goals. Chibuzor also played in an exhibition match for IFA XI against the star-studded Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, coached by the legendary Bobby Robson, in 1991.
Churchill Alemao, patron of Churchill Brothers Sports Club, said in his condolence message, “It is really sad to hear that Chibuzor is no longer among us. He was a sublime footballer and made invaluable contribution to Indian football."
Denzil Ferrao, who played with Chibuzor at Churchill Brothers, said: “Chibuzor is alive in his achievements. He was a competent footballer, an inspiration for so many footballers.”
