George Chigova Biography & Profile
George Chigova was a Zimbabwean professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper for South African Premier Soccer League clubs SuperSport United, Polokwane City as well as Zimbabwean side Dynamos, among others. Chigova also played for Zimbabwe national men’s football team, the Warriors.
Chigova was a part of the Zimbabwe squad for the 2014 African Nations Championship. He helped the team to a fourth-place finish after being defeated by Nigeria 1–0 . This biography provides a detailed overview of George Chigova’s career, awards and personal life.
Early Life
Born on March 4, 1991, in Harare, Zimbabwe, George Chigova grew up in Mvuma before his family relocated to Bulawayo. His football journey started at a young age, notably playing for the first team while still in grade six. He attended How Mine Primary School and later pursued his education at Mzilikazi and Lord Malvern, completing his Form 4 in Harare in 2006.
Career Beginnings
Chigova’s football career took off when he joined Aces Academy in 2007 and later transitioned to Gunners F.C. in 2010. His talent led him to Dynamos F.C. in 2012, marking a significant move in his professional trajectory. Notably, his first appearance for Dynamos against Highlanders Football Club showcased his skill when he saved a crucial penalty, earning respect and recognition early in his tenure with the team.
Football Stints
His career took him beyond Zimbabwe’s borders as he joined South African clubs, notably SuperSport United in 2014 and Polokwane City in 2015. He demonstrated resilience and prowess, contributing significantly to the teams during his tenure.
Return to SuperSport United and Death
After a successful stint with Polokwane City, Chigova returned to SuperSport United in 2020. Unfortunately, he battled health issues, ultimately leading to his tragic passing on November 15, 2023, at the age of 32, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
He had been dealing with a heart ailment for several months, which kept him away from football activities. At the time of his death, Chigova was not attached to any club after he officially left SuperSport United in June 2023 due to health complications related to his heart issues.
George Chigova [Image Credit: DailySun]
George Chigova’s Wife & Personal Life
George Chigova was married to Nokuthula, and they shared a close-knit family, as revealed by a relative following his sudden demise.
Legacy and Impact
Throughout his career, George Chigova left a mark as a talented goalkeeper with a penchant for making crucial saves. His performances for various clubs and the Zimbabwe national team showcased his dedication and skill in the sport.
Controversy Over Death After Consulting Nigerian Prophet
Encounter with a Nigerian Prophet
Following George Chigova’s passing, a video surfaced featuring an encounter between the late footballer and a Nigerian prophet. The video depicted the prophet advising Chigova to dismiss the diagnosis of a heart condition, attributing the purported ailment solely to the footballer’s thoughts. This advice was presented as a tactic to obstruct Chigova’s football career by delaying contract negotiations. The emergence of this footage raised significant concerns about the influence of non-medical advice on critical health matters, especially pertaining to a severe medical condition like a heart ailment.
A video has emerged of the late Zimbabwean goalkeeper George Chigova (32) visiting a Nigerian prophet in South Africa who appears to tell him to ignore advice that he had a heart problem and insisting “there is nothing on you, its your thoughts.” pic.twitter.com/ag11oqTa2e
— Lance Guma (@LanceGuma) November 16, 2023
References
- “George Chigova’s Final Moments Before His Sudden Death Revealed” – iHarare, November 16, 2023
- “Nigerian Prophet Told SuperSport United Goalkeeper George Chigova To Ignore Heart Condition Diagnosis Before His Death” – iHarare, November 17, 2023
- “Gemazo profiles and interviews Chigova.” – Facebook, February 15, 2013
