Following Neymar Jr.’s departure from Saudi Arabia, one might be inclined to think the league has lost its adroitness and flair. However, in its ranks remain football stars with the ability to twist defenders’ ankles and leave them in the dust.
One such player is Zambian international and Al Fayha talisman, Fashion Sakala. His dribbling skill was on full show on Saturday as Al Fayha drew 0-0 with Al Wehda in the Roshn Saudi League (RSL).
While the contest ended as a barren stalemate it was not lacking enthralling moments. Both sides failed to convert some clear-cut chances up until the 61st minute when Fashion Sakala played in Alejandro Pazuelo, who provided a cross for Chris Smalling’s headed goal.
The goal was initially awarded on goal-line technology as the opposition goalkeeper saved Smalling’s attempt from inside his goal. After ten minutes of consulting the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), the referee cancelled the goal due to an offside. Neither Al Fayha nor Al Wehda could conjure a winner despite some good opportunities late on.
Clean sheets for both goalkeepers but a tormenting evening for the Al Wehda defenders that lined up against Sakala. The 27-year-old was unplayable, gliding past defenders and turning them inside out at the Al Majma’ah Sport City.
Fashion Keeps Al Fayha On His Shoulders.
Fashion Sakala became the first player to make 10 successful dribbles in a single match in the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League according to Sofascore. At the time of writing this article, he stands at 62 completed take-ons for the season, only behind Myziane Maolida, who has managed 71.
In his debut season, Sakala finished top of the pile in successful dribbles made in the 2023-24 Roshn Saudi League, chalking up 84. He was also the fourth-best dribbler in the Scottish Championship in his final season at Rangers, tallying 54 completed take-ons.
He has scored seven goals and provided two assists in the Saudi topflight this campaign, keeping Al Fayha above the relegation zone.
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Elsewhere, the Chipolopolo technical bench continues to ponder over which player will provide the spark on the wing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Lameck Banda’s susceptibility to injury might leave Zambia relying on inexperienced talents like Joseph Sabobo Banda or Songa Chipyoka if they do not call Sakala.
