Ngalande helps his team escape relegation

On-and-off Flames forward Robin Ngalande has helped Azerbaijan side Zira FK to survive relegation from the top-flight league.

The former Atletico Madrid Reserves, Baroka FC, and Bidvest Wits gifted forward joined the club at the end of the first-round in January this year when it was at the bottom of the eight-team league, but it will finish fifth.

“The season is almost over now. Our last match is this weekend.

“We are currently fifth on the log table, but the final game won’t change anything as regards log standings.

“Nevertheless, I am very happy to have helped the team from bottom of the table which was one of the targets that were set for me. It has been a great six months I would say,” he said.

Meanwhile, the 26-year-old striker’s short-term deal is due for expiry, but Ngalande is not certain about his future yet.

“I will only be in a position to know whether my contract will be extended or not once the season is over. It will depend on both parties agreeing on the terms, if not then we will see,” said Ngalande

Ngalande joined the Baku-based side alongside Botswana international Mpho Kgaswane who joined Zira FK on short-term deals until the end of the season, with options to extend.

Football analyst George Kaudza Masina rates Ngalande as one of the most gifted players that the country has ever produced, but has not realised his full potential.

“He is skilful and makes football look simple, but he has still not yet reached the level expected of him. The solace is that age is still on his side,” he said.