By Bola Yapa Zed Sports Desk | 1st January 206
Zambia national team captain Fashion Sakala has strongly responded to remarks made by former Chipolopolo winger Clifford Mulenga, turning what began as a medical withdrawal from an AFCON match into a heated public exchange off the pitch.
FAZ Confirms Sakala’s Withdrawal
Ahead of Zambia’s 2025 AFCON Group A clash against hosts Morocco, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) confirmed that Sakala had been withdrawn on medical grounds.
According to FAZ, team doctor Dr. Wesley Ngongo ruled the Al Fayha striker out after he complained of abdominal discomfort, dizziness, and general weakness during a routine medical assessment, prompting his referral to a medical facility.
Mulenga’s Post Sparks Controversy
Shortly after the announcement, Clifford Mulenga took to Facebook with a cryptic post that quickly gained traction and sparked debate online.
“Apparently he ate CATERPILLARS (FINKUBALA) and had a huge reaction. A delicacy he’s never ever had in his entire life. He chose to eat them before the biggest game of the tournament for his COUNTRY,” Mulenga wrote.
The post was widely interpreted as a dig at Sakala’s professionalism and judgment ahead of a crucial AFCON fixture.
Sakala Responds With Strong Allegations
A day later, Sakala hit back forcefully, dismissing the claims and accusing Mulenga of spreading falsehoods driven by personal bitterness rather than facts.
“I can imagine people believing that it’s my first time to eat FINKUBALA after growing up in the village, but anyway people should know,” Sakala said.
The Chipolopolo captain went further, alleging that Mulenga’s comments stemmed from a personal fallout unrelated to football.
Money Dispute Allegedly Behind the Fallout
Sakala claimed that Mulenga had previously approached him several times for financial assistance, which he provided until he was no longer able to continue.
“You came to me several times asking for financial help, and I assisted you to the best of my ability. When I later explained that I could no longer help financially, you became my worst enemy,” Sakala alleged.
He accused the former winger of deliberately painting him in a negative light since then.
“This Is Not About Football” — Sakala
The Al Fayha forward insisted that the controversy had nothing to do with his commitment to the national team.
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and I respect that. However, tell people the truth. These accusations are not about football; they are driven by your personal anger and resentment toward me over money,” Sakala added.
Conclusion
The public exchange has added another layer of drama to Zambia’s already disappointing AFCON 2025 campaign. While FAZ maintains that Sakala’s withdrawal was purely medical, the fallout between two former and current Chipolopolo stars has ignited debate about professionalism, accountability, and respect within Zambian football.
