After availing a platform for Khama Billiat’s revival, football enthusiast Walter Magaya has again plucked another ex-PSL star from obscurity.
Three years after being forced to retire, Zimbabwean goalkeeper Edmore Sibanda is back in action. Sibanda is now turning out for Yadah FC.
This is the same club that gave Khama Billiat a platform to get his career back on track after he failed to secure a new club after leaving Kaizer Chiefs in August 2023.
The gangly goalkeeper was forced out of the game in 2022 after suffering a serious injury during a Motsepe Foundation Championship match. Sibanda, in goal for Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila [TTM], was hit by a Pretoria Callies player in the face under a reckless challenge. He sadly broke his jaw due to the nasty challenge.
In addition, his vision was partially impaired as he also suffered a fracture in his skull. The injuries were so bad that he only had one option: to quit the game. At that time he was 35.
Furthermore, he found himself at a crossroads as his then club, TTM, failed to help him meet his medical bills. Three years on, the former Warriors goalminder has made a sensational return to the field of play.
Sibanda played his first game for Yadah FC last Saturday against Green Fuel FC in Zimbabwe’s PSL. They lost 1-0 but for him it stood out as a memorable moment.
WHAT EX-PSL STAR EDMORE SIBANDA SAID
The 38-year-old is on cloud nine as he opens a fresh page in football, albeit in the twilight stages of his career. Sibanda posted on Facebook, pouring out emotions, as he also aims to inspire budding footballers to never give up.
“Three years on, my body has been through a lot, broken jaw, swollen brain, blind in one eye for a year. I might not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, but my story has always been about resilience and never giving up,” said the Golden Arrows goalie.
“My downs have been real downs, but through the pain, disappointments and hardships, I always find a way to get back up. And it’s not by might or any of my doing, but it’s been grace. I hope my story can be an inspiration to anyone who feels like giving up.
“It’s never over until you say it’s over, lions fight to the death. Thank you, team Yadah FC, for the opportunity.”
RELATED STORY: Forced to retire: Edmore Sibanda relives his TTM ordeal