Chipolopolo head coach Avram Grant has unveiled a 25-member provisional squad for Zambia’s upcoming international friendlies against Sudan and Tunisia, set to be held in Morocco. Notably, striker Fashion Sakala remains absent from the list, continuing his spell away from national duty.
Zambia will face Sudan on June 6, followed by a clash with Tunisia on June 10. These matches are crucial fixtures in the team’s build-up to the September round of FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where the Chipolopolo are set to face Morocco in a high-stakes Group E encounter. October fixtures against Tanzania and Niger will follow.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) confirmed the squad in a statement posted on its official platforms, emphasizing that the technical team is using these friendlies to fine-tune the squad and tactics ahead of the decisive qualifiers.
Among the notable inclusions is Leicester City striker Patson Daka, whose consistent performances in England have kept him at the heart of the national team setup. Also returning to the fold are Young Africans’ midfield duo Clatous Chama and Kennedy Musonda, both key players in Tanzania’s top-flight league.
While the squad includes several familiar faces, the continued absence of Fashion Sakala has sparked discussion among fans and analysts. Despite a strong season at club level, the dynamic forward remains sidelined, with no official reason given for his omission.
The squad features a blend of experience and youth, with Grant maintaining a balance between established players and emerging talents. The friendlies will offer a platform for fringe players to stake their claim for regular spots ahead of the crucial qualification campaign.
Zambia currently sits second in Group E after two matches, trailing leaders Morocco. With only one automatic qualification spot available for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Chipolopolo will need a strong showing in the upcoming qualifiers to keep their World Cup dream alive.
As the team assembles for camp and prepares to head to Morocco, all eyes will be on Grant’s tactical choices and the performances of key players as they build towards what could be a historic qualification run.
The full squad list is expected to be released in detail by FAZ in the coming days.