02/09/2026
These are big machines 👏🇿🇲💪🏿
WHERE IS HE NOW? — ISAAC CHANSA
Before the coaching, there was the footballer.
Isaac Chansa, affectionately known as “Zife,” became a familiar name to South African football supporters during his two spells with Orlando Pirates, where his energy and ability from midfield made him an important part of the Buccaneers. He later played in Sweden, China, India, Iraq and back home in Zambia, building a career that also saw him become one of Zambia’s most experienced internationals.
But when the boots eventually came off, Chansa found a new way to stay close to the game.
One of the biggest moments of his playing career came in 2012, when he helped Zambia win the Africa Cup of Nations, scoring in the penalty shootout against Côte d’Ivoire in the final. He also won the PSL title with Orlando Pirates in 2010, adding another major achievement to a career that took him from Zambia to South Africa and beyond.
Today, Isaac Chansa is involved in coaching in Zambia, continuing his football journey from the technical area rather than the midfield.
He was appointed head coach of City of Lusaka in 2021, taking his first steps into senior management after his playing career. More recent football databases list him as part of City of Lusaka's coaching staff, reflecting his continued involvement with the club and the development of footballers in Zambia.
From Orlando Pirates midfielder to AFCON winner and coach. ⚽
And despite leaving the pitch behind, Chansa has remained connected to the game — now using the experience gained from a long international and club career to help shape the next generation.
Do you remember Isaac Chansa the player? What do you remember most about his Pirates days? 👇