Zambian footballers have truly made their mark as influential figures within their respective European football clubs during the enthralling 2022–23 season.
With an increasing number of Chipolopolo stars venturing overseas in recent years, the passion for Zambian football is spreading like wildfire throughout Europe.
The slogan “Zambian kuchalo” (Zambia to the World) is gaining popularity, particularly among fans of clubs fortunate enough to have Copper Bullet stars gracing their ranks.
Zambian stars have established themselves as prominent goal-scorers, ranging from clinical goal-poachers to thunderbolt-unleashing midfield engines.
The majority of them, however, did not live up to many people’s expectations during the recently concluded European football season.
Bolanews delves into the list of Zambian footballers with the most league goals scored in the 2022–23 season.
8. Edward Chlifya (Midtjylland/Denmark): 1 goal
Chilufya has showcased his potential for Midtjylland despite limited game time, with only four starts to his name.
The 23-year-old made his mark in March, scoring his sole goal in a decisive 3-1 victory against Odense BK. The winger’s contributions will be significant if Midtjylland holds on to their UEFA Europa Conference League playoff qualification spot.
7. Lameck Banda (US Lecce/Italy): 1 goal
The electrifying winger has been setting the stage ablaze in Italy ever since joining the newly promoted club US Lecce. With his lightning speed and mesmerizing footwork, Banda etched his name in the history books as the first Zambian to score a goal in the prestigious Italian league, against Sampdoria last year. His dazzling skills have left spectators in awe, as he stands out as the sole African player to attempt over 100 dribbles in Serie A. And defenders should be ready to dance to Banda’s tune next season, as US Lecce secured survival this term.
6. Emmanuel Banda (Rijeka/ Croatia): 2 goals
Emmanuel Banda has scored two league goals since switching from Djurgardens IF to Rejika in the winter window. The 25-year-old midfielder’s contributions transcend just scoring goals.
READ ALSO: Banda sends Rijeka to European Football
Banda helped his side with a goal to secure a UEFA Europa Conference League qualification round spot for next season.
If he continues to put up impressive shifts, it’s not long before European heavyweights sign the Chipolopolo star.
5. Lubambo Musonda (AC Horsens/Denmark): 3 goals
Lubambo Musonda, the esteemed captain of the Chipolopolo, displayed his scoring prowess for AC Horsens, finding the back of the net three times in the 2022–23 Danish SuperLiga.
However, Musonda’s side is on the cusp of emulating the fate of Patson Daka’s club, as they currently sit in the relegation zone. A positive result is a minimum for the Danish club in their last game of the season against fellow relegation strugglers Lyngby.
3. Patson Daka (Leicester City/England): 4 goals
Despite limited minutes, Patson Daka contributed four goals and assists to Leicester City’s Premier League campaign. However, the 2015-16 league champions still tasted the bitter reality of getting relegated from the top flight.
Nevertheless, this setback could serve as an opportunity for the determined Zambian goal-poacher further to test his skills in the highly competitive EFL Championship.
A move away from the East Midlands club should not be ruled out, as clubs like Brighton, Luton Town, Everton, etc. could come knocking for his services.
2. Kings Kangwa (Crvena Zvezda/Serbia): 8 goals
Kings Kangwa has shone brightly this season in the realm of attacking midfielders, leaving spectators in awe with his remarkable performances.
With eight league goals to his name, Kangwa has proven to be a valuable asset for his club. He has played a pivotal role in their triumph as they clinched both the Serbian league and cup titles.
The midfielder expressed to Bolanews his interest in showcasing his skills in Europe’s esteemed top five leagues in the near future.
1. Fashion Sakala (Rangers FC): 12 goals
Leading the scoring charts for Zambia this season is none other than the flamboyant and industrious Fashion Sakala Jr.
READ ALSO: Sakala breaks own record at Rangers
Not many people backed him to have such an impressive season following the speculation that he would exit the Scottish club last summer due to limited playing time.
The 26-year-old has, however, found his mojo under the stewardship of Michael Beale, scoring 12 times and assisting seven in the Scottish Premiership this term.
