The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has officially cancelled Chipolopolo’s scheduled international friendlies against Sudan and Tunisia, originally set for 6 and 10 June in Morocco, following a series of internal disruptions and financial challenges.
FAZ President Keith Mweemba confirmed the decision during a press briefing at Football House on Friday, describing it as “deeply regrettable but unavoidable.”
According to Mweemba, unresolved player grievances, travel logistics, and longstanding financial debts made it impossible for the national team to honour the fixtures.
“The decision to cancel these matches was not made lightly, it became necessary following serious and unfortunate developments that compromised the team’s ability to travel and represent the nation with unity and discipline.”” Mweemba stated.
Head coach Avram Grant speaking to his players. Photo Credit: X
A major sticking point, he revealed, was a player revolt over unpaid allowances stemming from previous assignments — including a recent trip to Russia which some players cited as a reason for refusing to travel.
“These are longstanding issues we inherited, still, no one has ever been forced to wear the national shirt. If you choose to do so, you must understand the honour of representing the eagle and the flag ”Mweemba said.
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In a passionate appeal to patriotism, the FAZ chief insisted that while fair treatment of players is non-negotiable, wearing the national colours should never be conditional on payment.
“This jersey represents 20 million Zambians. It is not for sale and cannot be held hostage, if your loyalty to this nation is conditional, then this door may no longer be yours to walk through.” he declared.
Head coach Avram Grant and FAZ officials. Photo Credit: X
Mweemba also sounded a stern warning to individuals he accused of deliberately sabotaging the team’s progress from behind the scenes.
“We have credible information regarding deliberate interference from people with vested interests. This is your first and final warning. Anyone found culpable will face disciplinary action and, where necessary, legal prosecution,” he said.
The press conference also laid bare the financial crisis engulfing the association, with Mweemba disclosing that FAZ is battling debts exceeding K100 million, including unpaid accommodation bills in Egypt, Mozambique, South Africa, and Namibia.
“The coffers are dry — that’s a fact. But we will not apportion blame, FAZ is an institution with perpetual succession, and it’s our responsibility to fix what we have inherited” he said.
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Despite the turmoil, Mweemba reaffirmed FAZ’s commitment to supporting national team head coach Avram Grant and his technical programme for upcoming competitions, including the African Nations Championship (CHAN), Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
“We are committed to backing the coach in his programmes, he will have the full support of this administration.” he said.
Referencing Zambia’s tragic 1993 Gabon air disaster and the nation’s subsequent footballing resurgence, Mweemba concluded with a rallying cry:
“Zambia is bigger than all of us. This is a footballing nation. Our glory days will return — whether anyone likes it or not. Those who place money above patriotism have no place in this team.”
