Sat, 30 Sep 2017 10:43:31 +0000
…in final 23-member squad which faces Nigeria in 2018 Russia World Cup next week
By Michael Miyoba
NATIONAL striker Fashion Sakala and nine other foreign-based players have been included in the final 23-member squad that will face Nigeria in the 2018 Russia World Cup qualifier to be played next weekend in Uyo State, Nigeria.
National team coach Wedson Nyirenda however has dropped former national team captain Rainford Kalaba, midfielder Nathan Sinkala, players Given Singuluma , Kabaso Chongo and Alex Ng’onga.
Speaking after unveiling his 23-member squad, Nyirenda said that the players dropped were Zambians and would be considered for future assignments.
Nyirenda said that the 23-member squad summoned has what it takes to deliver good results in Nigeria.
Sakala’s return to the senior national team set up comes after having served his one match ban for his red card he picked in the game against Algeria recently.
Nyirenda has also summoned Sweden-based under-20 midfielder Edward Chilufya who missed Chipolopolo’s last two fixtures against Algeria.
Other foreign players summoned are, two-goal hero in the 3-1 bashing of Algeria at National Heroes stadium, Brian Mwila, Redbull Salzburg duo of Patson Daka and Enock Mwepu.
Others are Orlando Pirates striker Justin Shonga, Ajax Cape Town winger Rodrick Kabwe, Mamelodi Sundowns goal minder Kennedy Mweene and Turkish-based midfielder Chisamba Lungu.
Wada has also kept his faith in local players such as vice-captain Ziyo Tembo, left back, Fackson Kapumbu, Donashamo Malama, Ernest Mbewe, Augustine Mulenga Micheck Chaila and Zesco United midfielder Kondwani Mtonga.
“The door has always been open for every other player but for this encounter we have chosen those we feel can do a good job but those players who have been dropped will be called in future,
“Chances are still there. Anything can happen. We are going to Nigeria with one mission and that is to win to be able to qualify for Russia. We will come up with a plan to ensure that the players jell together within the period that we have been given to prepare for the game,” Nyirenda said.
The Zambia national soccer team leaves tomorrow for Ghana where it will set up camp ahead of the crucial Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Nigeria.
With foreign-based players expected to join their colleagues on Monday in Ghana, the team will depart for Nigeria on Thursday, two days before the crucial fixture.
FULL SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS
Kennedy Mweene), Toaster Nsabata, Allan Chibwe
DEFENDERS
Simon Silwimba, Fackson Kapumbu), Adrian Chama, Stoppilla Sunzu, Ziyo Tembo, Isaac Shamujompa.
MIDFIELDERS
Chisamba Lungu, Edward Chilufya, Donashano Malama, Kondwani Mtonga, Misheck Chaila, Augustine Mulenga, Enock Mwepu, Emmanuel Banda, Roderick Kabwe, Ernest Mbewe.
STRIKERS
Justin Shonga, Fashion Sakala, Brian Mwila, Patson Daka.
