Nkana Football Club have officially unveiled the signing of Zambian striker Enock Sakala Jr. on a two-year deal, marking a major coup in the ongoing transfer window. The towering forward joins Kalampa after parting ways with South African side Chippa United, where he played in the Betway Premiership.
At just 23 years old, Sakala already carries vast experience across Zambia, Egypt, and South Africa. His arrival in Wusakile is expected to significantly bolster Nkana’s frontline as the record Zambian champions look to rediscover their sharpness in front of goal.
From Chingola to Kalulushi to the Continent
Enock Sakala Jr.’s footballing journey has been one of ambition and steady rise. A product of Zambian football, he first announced himself on the domestic scene at Zesco United, where he became a fan favorite thanks to his aerial ability, work rate, and clinical finishing.
In the 2023/24 MTN Super League season, Sakala netted 12 goals for Zesco United, playing a crucial role in helping the Ndola giants secure qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup. His performances attracted international attention, and he later moved to Modern Sport in Egypt before sealing a short-term deal with Chippa United in South Africa.
Chippa United Spell and Return Home
While his stint at Chippa United was brief, it gave Sakala the chance to test himself against defenders in one of Africa’s most competitive leagues. Following the expiry of his contract with the Chili Boys earlier this month, Sakala became a free agent, attracting interest from several MTN Super League sides, including his former club Zesco United.
However, it is Nkana FC who have won the race for his signature, and Kalampa fans are buzzing with excitement over the move.
A New Dimension to Nkana’s Attack
Nkana’s decision to sign Sakala is not just about numbers; it’s about identity. Kalampa’s frontline has lacked a consistent target man who can hold up play, bully defenders, and convert half chances into goals.
Sakala Jr. brings all that and more. Standing tall and commanding in the box, he is equally adept at playing with his back to goal as he is making late runs into the penalty area. His signing means Nkana now have a striker capable of leading the line in both domestic and continental assignments.
The Challenge Ahead: Competing with Veterans
Interestingly, Sakala’s arrival also sets up an exciting battle within the Zesco United striking department. Although he has switched colors to Nkana, his past at Zesco remains a talking point as he will now be competing against his former teammates in the league.
Nkana currently boast a stacked frontline featuring Lazarous Kambole, Ronald ‘Sate Sate’ Kampamba, and Idriss Mbombo. While these veterans bring experience and pedigree, Sakala’s youth, physicality, and hunger could be the difference-maker for Nkana in big fixtures, especially in derbies and title-chasing games.
What This Means for the MTN Super League
With the MTN Super League becoming more competitive each season, the signing of Sakala is a statement of intent from Nkana. They are clearly determined to re-establish themselves among the title contenders.
For the league, this adds more intrigue. Matches involving Nkana vs Zesco United, Power Dynamos, and Kabwe Warriors are bound to have added spice with Sakala Jr. in the mix. Fans will be eager to see whether he can replicate or even surpass his 12-goal tally from last season.
Conclusion
Enock Sakala Jr.’s move to Nkana is more than just a transfer – it’s a reshaping of the MTN Super League narrative. Kalampa have gained a striker in his prime, while Zesco and other rivals now face the challenge of containing his threat.
If Sakala hits the ground running, Nkana could be looking at one of the most impactful signings of the season. The big question remains: can he fire Kalampa back into the conversation as genuine title contenders?
