The Zambia national team’s preparations for the Africa Cup qualifiers against Algeria and Zimbabwe have been dealt a blow after Sierra Leone pulled out of an international friendly that was set for Monday, 22nd March.
FAZ announced earlier in the week that they had confirmed an international friendly with the Leone Stars for Monday 22nd March at 21h00. The West African was expected to make a stop over in Lusaka en-route to Lesotho for their Group L qualifier.
However, the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has communicated a change in plans citing failure to get their key players in on time owing to challenges with logistics posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I am directed by the president to convey her apologies to the Football Association of Zambia’s president (Andrew Kamanga) and FAZ for the unfortunate situation we have experienced with regards the release of our players who are playing abroad due to Covid-19 restrictions and the traveling challenges amidst this difficult moment,” the SLA communication to FAZ read in part.
“On this note, we regret to inform you of the decision of the Sierra Leone Football Association to pull out of the friendly match between Sierra Leone and Zambia national team due to technical reasons beyond our control.”
With Zambia needing to pick maximum points in the two games ahead, the match was seen a chance to move for Chipolopolo coach Milutin Sredojević to refine his charges especially that he has recalled players to the national team who he had previously ostracized.
Zambia take on Algeria on Thursday 25th March at 21h00 in match to be played at the National Heroes Stadium.
Since we can’t secure any international friendly game .we can utilise local team and play friendly game.I guess the coach wants a combination winning team.
Tough luck guyz
Tough luck
Request a friendly with Kenya pls