Gamphani Lungu set for Zambia return after strong Pirates start

Gamphani Lungu is expected to return to Zambia’s national team set-up after a two-year absence, with his strong start to the season at Orlando Pirates putting him in contention for the squad’s next camp.

The utility player provided the assist for Deon Hotto’s winning goal as Pirates defeated Sekhukhune United 1-0 in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final over the weekend. The contribution extended his early-season record to three goal involvements in four competitive appearances, including two goals.

Lungu is now expected to be considered by Lwandamina for Zambia’s final camp ahead of next month’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches. He is also expected to be among the foreign-based players joining the squad when the next FIFA international window opens on 21 September.

The potential recall would end a long absence from the Chipolopolo set-up. Lungu was last called up in June 2024 for World Cup qualifying matches against Morocco and Tanzania, but his most recent appearance for Zambia came three months earlier in a friendly against Malawi.

Zambia’s upcoming schedule includes a trip to Algeria on 25 September before the team returns home to meet Togo four days later. That match will be played at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Lungu previously played for National Assembly before moving into the current chapter of his club career with Orlando Pirates. His latest assist and two goals have strengthened his case for a return as Zambia prepares for the next stage of its 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.