Avram Grant, the head coach of Zambia’s senior men’s national team, has emphasized that qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) remains the primary target as the team prepares to face Chad. Grant recently named a 26-member provisional squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers, with notable absences including striker Fashion Sakala and Patson Daka, the latter due to injury.
Sakala’s exclusion stems from a fallout with Grant after the player publicly criticized the coach’s selection criteria and accused him of favoritism. Grant explained that there is a standard for resolving conflicts within the team, and any player who speaks publicly against the coach or team policies without first addressing the issue internally will not be selected. This decision remains firm unless Sakala apologizes.
Despite these challenges, the squad boasts a blend of youth and experience, with the return of Francisco Mwepu and Jimmy Mukeya. Additionally, key players like Frankie Musonda, Kings Kangwa, and Clatous Chama are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s efforts in the two-leg matches against Chad, starting on October 11 at Levy Mwanawasa StadiumAvram Grant, the head coach of Zambia’s senior men’s national team, has emphasized that qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) remains the primary target as the team prepares to face Chad. Grant recently named a 26-member provisional squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers, with notable absences including striker Fashion Sakala and Patson Daka, the latter due to injury.
Sakala’s exclusion stems from a fallout with Grant after the player publicly criticized the coach’s selection criteria and accused him of favoritism. Grant explained that there is a standard for resolving conflicts within the team, and any player who speaks publicly against the coach or team policies without first addressing the issue internally will not be selected. This decision remains firm unless Sakala apologizes.
Despite these challenges, the squad boasts a blend of youth and experience, with the return of Francisco Mwepu and Jimmy Mukeya. Additionally, key players like Frankie Musonda, Kings Kangwa, and Clatous Chama are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s efforts in the two-leg matches against Chad, starting on October 11 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium
By Cosmas Chongo Mulenga