By 
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has officially called off Chipolopolo’s scheduled international friendlies against Sudan and Tunisia, which were set for 6 and 10 June in Morocco.
FAZ President, Keith Mweemba, confirmed the decision during a press briefing at Football House on Friday, describing the cancellation as “deeply regrettable but unavoidable” due to a combination of logistical setbacks, player grievances, and inherited financial obligations.
“The decision to cancel these matches was not made lightly,” Mweemba said. “It became necessary following serious and unfortunate developments that compromised the team’s ability to travel and represent the nation with unity and discipline.”
The friendlies had been arranged as part of Zambia’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
However, several players declined to travel, citing unpaid allowances from their previous assignment in Russia, alongside other outstanding dues.
“Certain individuals, including some players, refused to travel over unpaid allowances. These are longstanding issues we inherited, but which we have a duty to resolve,” Mweemba explained.
He said: “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.”
He continued: “This jersey represents 20 million Zambians. It is not for sale and cannot be held hostage. While players deserve fair treatment, patriotism should never be conditional on payment.”
Mweemba also issued a stern warning to individuals allegedly undermining the national team 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 FAZ president further disclosed that the association was grappling with severe financial challenges, with debts exceeding K100 million, including unpaid hotel 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,” Mweemba admitted
He reiterated that representing Zambia was a privilege, not a right, and called for renewed discipline and accountability throughout the football fraternity.
“If your loyalty to this nation is conditional, then this door may no longer be yours to walk through. We will move forward, with or without those who believe the national team is a bargaining chip,” he cautioned.
Mweemba invoked Zambia’s historic resilience, referencing the 1993 Gabon air disaster and the country’s subsequent footballing revival as a testament to the nation’s enduring spirit.
He also assured the media that FAZ remained in close contact with Chipolopolo coach, Avram Grant, and continues to support his technical programme, despite the current setbacks.
“We are committed to backing the coach in his programmes for CHAN, AFCON, and World Cup qualifiers.
He will have the full support of this administration,” Mweemba said.
He added, “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.”
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