Patson Daka Becomes First Zambian To Score Premier League Goal

Zambian international Patson Daka has scored his first goal since joining Leicester in the Premier League this summer. The goal against Manchester United in Saturday’s match makes Zambia the 99th foreign FIFA affiliated nation to be represented in the Premier League scorelist.

Daka has been limited to just two Premier League appearances since joining Leicester from RB Salzburg in a £23 million deal, as he is given time to adjust to the demands of English football by manager Brendan Rodgers.

However, an impressive performance at home to Manchester United, in which he was voted player of the match by BBC Sport readers, capped by a goal suggests he has not had any trouble acclimatising to his new surroundings.

This form is a welcome boost to Zambia’s admittedly slim chances of qualification for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar: Chipolopolo need to win their remaining two group games and ensure an 11 goal-swing in goal difference to stand a chance of qualifying for the tournament next year, so will hope their star striker keeps firing on all cylinders.

Despite these slender odds, and the disappointment of not qualifying for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January next year, the emergence of Daka means there is cause for optimism regarding the future of the Zambian National Team.

The same can be said about Enock Mwepu, Daka’s former Salzburg teammate, who followed Daka to the Premier League this summer to join Brighton in a deal potentially worth more than 20 million pounds. He has already established himself in the Brighton first team, making four appearances in all competitions and registering one assist.

Meanwhile, Daka’s goal on Saturday helped Leicester to a 4-2 home victory over Manchester United, taking them up to 11th place in the Premier League. Mwpeu’s Brighton sit 4th, currently occupying a Champions League place in this fledgling season.