Explanation for Enock Sakala Jr.’s COSAFA Omission

Enock Sakala Jnr, the second highest goalscorer in the recently concluded MTN Super League, has been left out of the final squad for the 2024 COSAFA Cup, much to the disappointment of fans.

However, the ZamFoot Crew has learned that the ZESCO United forward was not dropped but excused from the squad.

According to a source, the reason for his exclusion is his pending move to the Egyptian Premier League.

Sakala is set to sign with Egyptian top-flight club Future FC, following his impressive performance for ZESCO United, where he scored 12 goals and helped them qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup.

The former Zambia U17 forward is expected to sign a three-year deal with Future FC, keeping him with the club until 2027.

COSAFA team head coach Chisi Mbewe announced his 23-man squad for the 2024 COSAFA Cup, set to take place in Gqeberha from June 26 to July 7.

Mbewe, the Under-20 coach, will lead the Chipolopolo in South Africa for the regional tournament.

The Chipolopolo will open their Group B campaign against guest team Kenya on June 27 at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, followed by a match against arch-rivals Zimbabwe on June 30 at Wolfson Stadium.

Their final group match will be against Comoros on July 2.

FINAL SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS

• Victor Chabu (Nchanga Rangers)
• Willard Mwanza (Power Dynamos)
• Charles Kalumba (Red Arrows)

DEFENDERS

• Mathews Chabala (ZESCO United)
• Killian Kanguluma (Kabwe Warriors)
• Chitoshi Chinga (Nkana FC)
• Mathews Banda (Nkana FC)
• Brian Chilimina (Red Arrows)
• John Chishimba (ZESCO United)
• Owen Mwamba (Mufulira Wanderers)
• Zachariah Chilongoshi (NAPSA Stars)

MIDFIELDERS

• Dickson Chapa (NAPSA Stars)
• Frederick Mulambia (Power Dynamos)
• Austin Muwowo (Power Dynamos)
• Abraham Siankombo (ZESCO United)
• Kelvin Kapumbu (ZESCO United)
• David Simukonda (ZESCO United)
• Owen Tembo (Power Dynamos)
• Saddam Yusuf Phiri (Red Arrows)

STRIKERS

• Albert Kangwanda (Al Hilal-Sudan)
• Andrew Phiri (FC MUZA)
• Jimmy Mukeya (Kansanshi Dynamos)
• Ricky Banda (Red Arrows)