Zambia’s Lameck Banda back at Lecce in time for daughter’s birth after heart scare

It was an emotional weekend for Lameck Banda, who returned home from hospital just in time to witness the birth of his daughter after a frightening incident during Serie A play with Napoli.

The 25-year-old Zambia international suffered a knock to the chest and struggled to breathe during Lecce’s trip to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Banda collapsed to the ground, prompting Napoli coach Antonio Conte to immediately signal for Lecce’s medical staff. While Banda did not lose consciousness, he was taken to hospital and kept overnight for observation.

Lecce confirmed that Banda was released with a clean bill of health, allowing him to be present for a joyful personal milestone. The club announced the arrival of little Rumi Ezlyn Banda, welcoming the forward into fatherhood as he celebrated alongside his family.

Banda, who joined Lecce in 2022, has been an important contributor this season, netting three goals and providing three assists across 24 appearances in Serie A and the Coppa Italia. His return to action is expected to be closely monitored, but the forward’s focus over the weekend was understandably on his daughter’s safe arrival.

The incident, while alarming for fans and teammates, ended on a positive note, highlighting Banda’s resilience and the swift response of medical personnel.

Lecce supporters have expressed relief that the forward is now healthy and back with his family, a morale boost ahead of the club’s upcoming Serie A fixtures.