"Time for National Team," Banda says

After suffering an injury in US Lecce’s 3-2 loss to Bologna on Sunday night, Zambian winger Lameck Banda left fans concerned about his availability for the Chipolopolo’s crucial AFCON qualifier against Ivory Coast.

The quick forward scored his second goal in Serie A 17 minutes into the game. He slotted home from the center of the box with his right foot, thanks to Gabriel Strefezza’s assist.

His goal put Lecce in the lead at the break but failed to continue the match after sustaining an injury 10 minutes into the second half and was substituted.

Disaster struck immediately after his substitution, as Bologna came from behind to win the match.

With only 11 days to Zambia’s crucial match, the severity of his injury was not confirmed by his club. However, the 22-year-old appears to announce on social media that he is fine.

He wrote on his Facebook page: “An end to my debut season in Serie A. A season that saw me make history as the very first Zambian to play in the Italian Topflight league.

“Many lessons learnt in my quest to be a better player…. And I’m happy as a team we secured top-flight football for next season.

“Time for National Team on June 17 and a little holiday to recharge for the next season.”

‘Unttachable banda’ key in Zambia AFCON return campaign

Banda is among the 29 players called by coach Avram Grant to take on Ivory Coast on the 17th of June 2023 at the Levy Mwanansa Stadium in Ndola.

He played a key role in their previous two games against Lesotho. The tricky winger scored a brace at home in the first leg and creating three scoring opportunities away.

The Chipolopolo Boys need only a point to seal their qualification for the Cup of Nations for the first time since 2015.