Chipolopolo striker Patson Daka has been excused from the upcoming international friendly against Russia at the request of his club, Leicester City, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has announced.
Earlier today, a 19-man squad named by head coach Avram Grant was unveiled by FAZ, with Daka and several other key players absent from the roster to face Russia on Tuesday.
In a statement issued by Secretary General Reuben Kamanga this afternoon, FAZ has provided an update on the notable absences of several key players, including Daka, who has withdrawn from the selection to deal with issues related to his work permit in England.
“Regarding Patson Daka, his club has asked for his excuse during the international break to facilitate the renewal of his work permit. His current permit has expired, and the club needs his presence to complete the process with government authorities. The international break was the only time they could handle the paperwork,” Kamanga revealed.
Daka last featured for the Chipolopolo in the 2-0 defeat away to Morocco in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers held back in June 2024.
Kamanga further explained that Italy-based US Lecce attacker Lameck Banda and captain Lubambo Musonda of FC Magdeburg have also been excused to continue their recovery from injuries at their respective clubs.
“There are a number of reasons. Lameck Banda is recovering from an injury, and his club requested that he be left out to avoid any further setbacks. They want him fully fit for future assignments, as he hasn’t been playing for a while,” he said.
Meanwhile, Scottish-based defender Frankie Musonda and Stophila Sunzu are other notable absentees who will miss out due to travel glitches.
Kamanga further disclosed that the selected contingent has since left the country en route to Moscow via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ahead of Tuesday’s encounter.
“We are excited and looking forward to this friendly. The team will be leaving as I speak to you. The team is probably airborne already, leaving for Russia through Addis Ababa, and all we can do is wish them a safe passage up to the time they arrive in Moscow,” he said.
Chipolopolo had been due to face Eritrea and Congo Brazzaville in back-to-back Group E World Cup qualifiers this month, but both matches failed to take off due to the withdrawal and suspension of their two opponents, respectively.
Russia will host the Chipolopolo on Tuesday night at 19:00 hours (CAT) at the VTB Arena in Moscow.
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