Zimbabwean football star survives gun attack in South Africa

Zimbabwe defender Divine Lunga escaped a shooting in Johannesburg during a Sunday drive. Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed the incident was a case of attempted murder, but no arrests have been made yet.

The 31‑year‑old was driving in the inner city suburb of Hillbrow when his car was shot at by an unknown gunman, according to local reports. He and his younger brother, reportedly heading to church, were in the car when the suspect opened fire, allegedly mistaking Lunga for an undercover police officer.

Lunga, who plays for both Zimbabwe’s national team and South African club Mamelodi Sundowns, escaped unharmed. The incident underscores South Africa’s high murder rate, a persistent problem for many public figures.

Mamelodi Sundowns and the Zimbabwe national team (the Warriors) have not issued official statements. However, the Warriors shared a photo of Lunga in a prayer position with a caption reading “In God we trust” next to his name.

Lunga has earned 21 caps for Zimbabwe and played in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Since joining Mamelodi Sundowns in 2021 he helped the club secure four domestic league titles and an African Champions League title in May.