Academy Graduate, Martin Mapisa, has been named in the 23 man national team squad who will represent Zimbabwe in the African Cup of Nations. The 6'3" Goalkeeper, along with teammates, will be looking to make an impact on the international stage as his career continues to move from strength to strength.
Martin Mapisa, joined FC Malaga City Academy in the Summer of 2018, from Aces Youth Soccer Academy (AYSA). Making a real impact upon his arrival, Mapisa was quickly promoted through the club structure to CD Almuñecar City where he earned a permanent move to Tercera División team Vélez CF.
After continuing to impress with Vélez, the 22-year-old then transferred to Madrid-based Zamora CF - where he achieved promotion to Segunda Division B, the third tier of Spanish football and now finds himself at a major international tournament.
We caught up with Academy Director and personal friend of Martin's, George Jermy, who commented on the announcement by saying "Martin is a great example for all our Academy players, of what can be achieved with hard work and talent. Since progressing through our Academy system and into our senior teams, Martins career has gone from strength to strength and it's a very proud moment for our football club to see him competing in an International tournament and representing his country."
He finished by saying "We wish Martin and the whole squad the best of luck for the tournament and will definitely be keeping track on their progression."
After facing opening day defeat, in a tightly contested 1-0 loss Senegal, Martin and the Zimbabwe squad will be looking to bounce back in emphatic fashion as they hope to progress into the knockout stages of the tournament.
It's great to see another FCMC alumni, representing our Academy at the highest level possible and we hope to see more Alumni reaching similar feats in the near future.