Zambia national team striker Patson Daka has been confirmed fully fit following online speculation about a possible neck injury during his trademark somersault goal celebration. Social media reports suggested the Leicester City forward missed a step during the celebration, raising concerns over his health.
Chipolopolo team doctor Wesley Ngongo addressed the rumors, reassuring fans that Daka is 100 percent fine and pain-free. “Patson does not have any injury; of course, football is a contact sport. Players run; sometimes they trip; sometimes they fall but they don’t get injured from minor contacts or minor falls,” Dr Ngongo stated. He added that Daka has no neck pain, stiffness, or movement issues and is available for full training.
Dr Ngongo also provided updates on other players who were substituted during Zambia’s draw against Mali. Lameck Banda and Miguel Chaiwa only suffered minor knocks and will be able to participate fully in training. Lubambo Musonda has also been declared fully fit. “Everyone is available to train. We did not have any serious injuries from yesterday’s game. Lameck and Miguel had minor knocks, Lubambo as well, but these are just minor issues,” Dr Ngongo explained.
Additionally, veteran defender Stoppila Sunzu, who missed the Mali match due to illness, has recovered and will return to full training. “Stoppila Sunzu did not participate in yesterday’s game due to illness but he has since recovered and will be available to train fully,” confirmed Dr Ngongo.
With all key players fit, Zambia enters their next training session and upcoming matches with a fully available squad, ready to continue their AFCON 2025 campaign.