FAZ Issues Medical Update as Chipolopolo Faces Setback Before Friendly Match against South Africa

15.11.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has released an important medical update ahead of this afternoon’s FIFA International Friendly Match, confirming that Chipolopolo head coach Moses Sichone and several members of his technical bench and playing squad have been ruled out due to suspected food poisoning.

According to a statement by FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shepande, Technical Committee Vice Chairperson Kalusha Bwalya has remained at the team hotel together with medical staff to monitor the affected individuals.

“We wish to inform our members and stakeholders that our Head Coach Mr. Moses Sichone, Video Analyst Elias Chipota and some players will not participate in the friendly game due to suspected food poisoning,” Shepande announced.

Despite the setback, the match will proceed as planned. Assistant coach Perry Mutapa will take charge of the team, supported by Noel Mwandila, Kennedy Mweene, and Joseph Musonda. FAZ further confirmed that some affected team members have recovered in time to feature in the match scheduled for 15:00 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Shepande concluded by wishing the affected players and staff a speedy recovery.