Chipolopolo and Power Dynamos goalkeeper, Lawrence Mulenga was a wonder to watch last season after leading his club to a league title after an 11-year drought.
Mulenga kept 15 clean sheets and only allowed 14 goals last season. The former Kabwe Warriors goalkeeper was firm for his side and executed his backline well.
The 25-year-old became an instant fan favorite following his impressive debut for the Chipolopolo Boys in June.
Mulenga was given the nod ahead of Taoster Nsabata by coach Avram Grant in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier match against Ivory Coast at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
He exceeded everyone’s expectations by keeping a clean sheet to help Zambia defeat the Elephants 3-0 and earn qualification for next year’s tournament.
After that game, Mulenga was regarded as the new Chipolopolo goalkeeper.
Is the Chipolopolo keeper losing form?
His recent performance, though, appears to have declined as he fell short of keeping a clean sheet in his last six games.
It all started during the 2023 COSAFA Cup when he conceded four goals in three group-stage matches before being dropped from the team.
Mulenga conceded three goals again on August 12th, when Power Dynamos lost 3-1 to Forest Rangers in the Carling Black Label Charity Shield final.
He did not keep a clean sheet again last weekend in the CAF Champions League preliminary round, losing 2-1 to African Stars with his Power Dynamos side.
Despite his shortcomings, Mulenga has remained confident about his place on the national team squad and has recently stated that he hopes to play in Europe one day.
READ MORE: Mulenga dreams European move after Chipolopolo debut
He signed a two-year contract extension with Power Dynamos, who will host African Stars in the CAF Champions League preliminary round second leg this weekend in Ndola.
It, however, remains to be seen whether Avram Grant will start him against Comoros in the AFCON qualifier match next month.
