Patson Daka Set to Miss Zambia’s Final AFCON Qualifiers
Zambia’s Chipolopolo squad will face their final two matches in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers without their star forward, Patson Daka. Despite recently resuming training with Leicester City, Daka will not be joining the national team as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury.
Zambia’s national football team, the Chipolopolo, will have to navigate their upcoming qualifiers without the services of Patson Daka. The 26-year-old Zambian international, who plays for Leicester City, has not been named in Avram Grant’s squad for the crucial games against Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone. Daka, who underwent surgery following an ankle injury during a pre-season match against Lens in August, has been making progress but is still not considered fully fit for competitive matches.
Leicester City’s manager, Steve Cooper, recently confirmed Daka’s return to group training ahead of the club’s fixture against Ipswich. However, the decision to withhold him from Zambia’s squad was made to allow him more time to regain match fitness and avoid rushing his recovery. This move aligns with Leicester City’s priority to ensure Daka’s long-term fitness, especially as they seek to stabilize their position in the English Premier League.
Daka’s Absence and Zambia’s Path to AFCON Qualification
The absence of Daka is significant for Zambia, who currently sits second in Group G with seven points, trailing leaders Ivory Coast by two points. Zambia’s hopes of qualifying hinge on securing a victory against Ivory Coast on November 15 at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. A win would put Zambia in a strong position to qualify, especially if Sierra Leone and Chad’s match does not end in a draw. However, without Daka, Zambia will need to rely on other players to step up and deliver crucial goals.
Daka’s last appearance for Chipolopolo was in a World Cup qualifier against Tanzania in June 2024. Since then, he has missed all AFCON qualifiers due to his injury, leaving a gap in Zambia’s attack that coach Avram Grant will need to address. The team will undoubtedly feel the absence of Daka’s talent, with his remarkable record of seven goals and five assists in last season’s Championship helping Leicester secure promotion to the Premier League.
Leicester City’s Campaign and Daka’s Return
Daka’s return to the Leicester squad could not come at a more critical time. Leicester City has had a rocky start to their Premier League campaign, with only one win, three losses, and four draws so far. His potential return will likely provide a boost as the club seeks to climb the league standings and make a successful transition back into the top flight. Daka’s impact was clear last season, where he contributed heavily to Leicester’s promotion, and he will be hoping to replicate that form in the Premier League soon.
Conclusion: Zambia Faces a Challenging Road Ahead
Zambia’s journey to AFCON 2025 qualification is now even more challenging without one of their top scorers. The Chipolopolo faithful will hope that other key players can rise to the occasion in Daka’s absence. With Ivory Coast leading the group and Sierra Leone still in contention, every point counts, and Zambia’s determination to qualify for AFCON 2025 will be tested. Meanwhile, Zambian fans and Leicester City supporters alike will be eager to see Daka return to full strength and make his mark both for club and country.
