The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has called off the Chipolopolo’s scheduled international friendlies against Sudan and Tunisia initially set for 6 and 10 June in Morocco.
FAZ President Keith Mweemba confirmed the cancellation at a press briefing held at Football House, describing the situation as deeply regrettable but unavoidable due to a combination of logistical setbacks, unresolved player grievances and inherited financial obligations.
Speaking at a press briefing held at Football House, Mweemba said the decision to cancel the matches was not taken lightly, but became unavoidable due to “serious and unfortunate occurrences” that compromised the team’s ability to travel and represent the nation with unity and discipline.
Zambia was scheduled to play Sudan and Tunisia on 6 and 10 June 2025, respectively, in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. However, a number of players declined to travel, citing unpaid allowances from their previous outing in Russia and other outstanding dues.
“Certain individuals, including some players refused to travel citing issues around unpaid allowances. These are issues we inherited but have a duty to address. Still, no one has ever been forced to wear the national shirt. If you choose to do so, you must understand what it means to represent the eagle and the flag,” Mweemba said.
“This jersey represents 20 million people. It is not for sale and cannot be held hostage. The national team is not a playground for boycotts or power games. While players have a right to fair treatment, patriotism must never wait for payment.”
Mweemba also sent a stern warning to those allegedly sabotaging the national team from behind the scenes.
“We have credible information about deliberate interference from individuals with vested interests. This is your first and final warning. If found culpable, you will face disciplinary action, and where necessary, legal prosecution.” Mweemba said.
The FAZ boss revealed that the association is facing severe financial distress, with debts amounting to over K100 million, including unpaid hotel bills in countries such as Egypt, Mozambique, South Africa and Namibia.
“The coffers are dry, that’s a fact, but we will not point fingers. FAZ is an institution with perpetual succession. It is our responsibility to fix what we have inherited,” Mweemba said.
Mweemba emphasized that representing Zambia is a privilege, not a right, and called for discipline and accountability at all levels of the game.
“If your loyalty to Zambia is conditional, then this door may not be yours to walk through again. We will move forward with or without those who believe the national team is a bargaining chip,” Mweemba said.
He referenced Zambia’s recovery after the 1993 Gabon air disaster as a reminder of the nation’s footballing spirit and resilience.
Mweemba assured the media that the association remains in contact with Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant and fully supports his technical programme despite the recent disruptions.
“We are committed to supporting the coach in all his programmes for CHAN, AFCON and World Cup qualifiers. He will have the full backing of this administration,” Mweemba said.
“Zambia is bigger than all of us. This is a footballing nation, and we know what it takes to run football. Our glory days will return, whether anyone likes it or not. Those who put money before patriotism have no place in this team.”
FAZ
Arrest the former FAZ President for fraud and corruption immediately.
You are right, If that is the case then the former FAZ president must be held accountable for fraud, corruption and mismanagement of government funds.
Grant said, “qualifying for the World Cup was not our target,” so why would players even have the spirit to prepare for those games.
Even so, football now is motivated by money. You don’t pay, they don’t play. Otherwise truly, these modern players have no patriotism
The coach was honest & 100% spot on. Even if it was the target that team which failed to go through group stages at AFCON does not have the stamina to go all the way.
You can give them all the money in the worl nikuwayawaya chabe.
Just concentrate on motivating the U17 and U20 girls. Forget about male football at national team level. Its a waste of time, money, and resources .
The coach was honest & 100% spot on. Even if it was the target that team which failed to go through group stages at AFCON does not have the stamina to go all the way.
You can give them all the money in the worl nikuwayawaya chabe.
Just concentrate on motivating the U17 and U20 girls. Forget about male football at national team level. Its a waste of time, money, and resources .
Point iyo.
Infact channel all funds to the women national teams especially U17 and U20 teams.
Barbra & Co are now lazier fare, they think they are the team to beat. No wonder SA walka all over them. Even to Malawi sure iyaba
I concur, let’s focus on the prospects who are hungry. Not big headed players.
This is not Musa you got ve to be tough my friend and seek guidance from us experts.
100Million in debt. That’s a lot. FIFA has been giving funds to the Association for years. Players and the Coach not paid. No wonder the teams are failing.
In RSA the Football Association was being asked why U20 Coach gets paid R30,000 a month and the Senior Coach gets over a Million Rands a month. They appeared before a Parliament Committee. The former Association NEEDS to come and account.