LUBUSHA HAILS FASHION SAKALA
THE Football Association of Zambia ( FAZ) says it is saddened by the two losses that the Chipolopolo suffered in Group E of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
FAZ president Andrew Kamanga said the Chipolopolo could have done better in the two games where they recorded consecutive defeats to Group E rivals Morocco and Tanzania.
Despite Zambia’s chances to qualify for the 2026 World Cup which will be held in the U. S. A, Canada and Mexico dimming following consecutive defeats to Morocco and Tanzania, Kamanga believes the World Cup qualifying race is not over yet.
The FAZ Chief said the Chipolopolo will have to fight for every point in the remaining fixtures.
“We expect the technical bench to review the two matches and ensure that we improve in the upcoming fixtures,” Kamanga said.
The FAZ Chief said his association has set its eyes on the AFCON qualifiers that kick off in a few months with the draw set for July 4.
“We have our eyes set on another AFCON appearance to sustain our presence on the continental stage,” Kamanga said.
Meanwhile, Kamanga said FAZ will make sure that the Under17 girls are well prepared for the 2024 Under- 17 World Cup by affording the Copper Princesses quality preparations that include an international camp and friendly matches.
Kamanga said the association has set standards which it intends to sustain for the long haul. Kamanga said FAZ has laid out a solid grassroots program that has since started bearing fruits with the Copper Princesses having qualified for the World Cup which will run from October 16th to November 3rd in the Dominican Republic.
“Our under- 17 made us proud by qualifying to the Dominican Republic 2024 FIFA World Cup,” Kamanga said. “This adds to our already impressive scorecard that saw the Copper Queens qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris while the Chipolopolo, under- 17 and under- 20 boys both qualified for their respective Africa Cup of Nations competitions.”
Kamanga said FAZ has made it a habit in the men’s category to groom boys from under- 15 level by exposing them to international tournaments which aims to help them be ready for future national assignments.
On the historical visit of the FIFA boss who during his two days visit in Zambia launched the newly constructed Accommodation Centre and announced the 10 million United States Dollars Technical Centre project which will be housed in Chongwe Kamanga said; “The new Technical Centre will completely change the face of the Zambian game. It was also good to see the FIFA president
Kamanga Also hailed the FIFA Boss for paying his respects to the Gabon Disaster Heroes and interacting with the families of the victims.
CHIPANGALI Constituency Member of Parliament, Andrew Lubusha has lavished praise on Chipolopolo striker Fashion Sakala for hosting a successful inaugural Fashion Sakala Football Tournament in Eastern Province.
Lubusha commended Sakala’s selflessness and dedication to community development, stating that; “Attending the FH10 finals at the K700,000 rich Fashion Sakala football tournament was truly a proud moment.”
“Fashion’s selflessness and patriotism serves as a shining example for us all. His commitment to sharing his success with his community is a testament to his character and the spirit of Ubuntu,” Lubusha said.
Fashion Sakala, the talented forward who plays for Al- Fayha
in the Saudi Pro League, brought together over 50 teams from across the Eastern Part of Zambia for a highly competitive and entertaining tournament which was eventually won by Young Nkwazi Chipata.
Lubusha extended his congratulations to all participants, organizers, and stakeholders who contributed to making the tournament a success.
“Well done to Sakala, FAZ, and all participants on a superbly organized event. May this tournament inspire more initiatives that foster unity, love, and selflessness in our communities,” the Chipangali Law maker said.
The Fashion Sakala Football Tournament was a resounding success, showcasing the impressive talent and passion of young footballers in Eastern Province.
Lubusha said Fashion Sakala’s commitment to giving back to his community has made a significant impact, inspiring and empowering future generations.