Mweemba Promises Resolution in Sakala-Grant Dispute, Eyes AFCON, WAfCON Glory

Lusaka, Monday, May 12, 2025 — Newly elected Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Keith Mweemba says a solution will be found to the ongoing conflict between Chipolopolo striker Fashion Sakala Junior and head coach Avram Grant.

Speaking at a press briefing at Football House, Mweemba, the former FC MUZA president, emphasized the importance of engaging Grant directly before making any pronouncements on the matter.

“A solution will be found and we will all be happy,” Mweemba said. “I can’t make any pronouncements without meeting the coach… that would be bad leadership.”

The conflict between Sakala and Grant has drawn public attention in recent weeks, with the striker reportedly refusing call-ups due to alleged mistreatment and communication issues with the coach. Mweemba stressed that understanding the root cause of the issue is key to restoring unity within the squad.

The 45-year-old FAZ boss also outlined his broader vision for Zambian football, expressing confidence that both the men’s and women’s national teams can clinch continental glory this year if properly supported.

“If we play our cards right, we can actually win both the AfCON and WAfCON,” Mweemba said. “I believe in meticulous preparation. We must engage our coaches and support them fully in their plans.”

Chipolopolo will feature in Group A of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AfCON) in Morocco, facing the hosts, Mali, and Comoros. The Copper Queens, meanwhile, will compete in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAfCON), also in Morocco, alongside Morocco, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo in their group.

Despite his optimism for AFCON and WAfCON, Mweemba struck a realistic tone regarding Zambia’s chances of qualifying for the men’s 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“I don’t want to be over-ambitious. For this cycle, we may not be in a good position, but for the next qualifiers, we must qualify without fail.”

On the domestic front, Mweemba assured FAZ staff that their jobs were secure under the new administration. He said improving working conditions, particularly in areas like transport, housing, and salary structures, was a top priority.

“No one is losing their job,” Mweemba said. “We are looking at ways to improve the conditions of service to ensure Football House has a motivated workforce.”

Mweemba is expected to meet both Grant and Copper Queens coach Nora Hauptle in the coming days as he begins his term focused on unity, preparation, and performance across all levels of Zambian football.