Fashion Sakala named new Zambia captain ahead of AFCON

Zambia national team technical bench has announced changes at captaincy level which have seen forward Fashion Sakala named as the new captain ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The new pecking order lists Lubambo Musonda as first assistant, Kings Kangwa as second assistant, Frankie Musonda as third assistant, and Benson Sakala as fourth assistant captain. The adjustments were announced just before Monday’s training session at the Pinata Sports Arena in Murcia, Spain.

Chipolopolo head coach Moses Sichone thanked Lubambo Musonda for steering the team during his time at the helm. Sichone urged the players to support the changes and give Sakala the necessary backing as the team heads to AFCON.

Sichone urges players to support new changes

“Lubambo is still one of the captains; we just thought it necessary to make a few changes at that level. I urge you all to support the new team leadership,” said Sichone.

Speaking after the new changes, Sakala confirmed accepting the new role with a lot of humility and respect, and thanked his predecessor Musonda for being a good leader and team mate.

“I’m honored to be considered for the role of captain of the Chipolopolo. This comes with a huge responsibility to not only the team itself but the nation at large. I thank God for this. Grateful to my coach and my team mates,” said Sakala, who features for Saudi Pro League club Al-Fayha

On his part, Musonda welcomed the changes and urged the players to accept them for the good of the team.

“As the coach has said, I urge you to support the new guy (Fashion Sakala), and the rest of the players announced. Take the instructions seriously and obey them, as they are messengers for the technical bench,” said Musonda.

Zambia are currently pitching camp in Spain and are scheduled to play two friendly matches against DR Congo and Ivory Coast before proceeding to the AFCON. Chipolopolo have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Comoros, and Mali.

The Chipolopolo will kick off their campaign against Mali on December 22 at Stade Mohammed V, before taking on Comoros at the same venue on December 26. Their final group fixture will be against Morocco at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on December 29.

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