The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has formally informed its members and stakeholders that several key members of the Chipolopolo team, including Head Coach Mr. Moses Sichone and Video Analyst Elias Chipota, have been ruled out of this afternoon’s FIFA International Friendly Match. The reason for their absence is suspected food poisoning, which has also affected some players.

FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shepande confirmed that Technical Committee Vice Chairperson Kalusha Bwalya also remained behind at the team’s hotel in Port Elizabeth, receiving medical attention alongside other affected players and staff. Shepande stressed that health teams were diligently attending to all those impacted by the suspected food poisoning.

Despite this significant setback, FAZ has assured that the game will proceed as scheduled. Assistant coach Perry Mutapa will take charge of the team for the match, supported by Noel Mwandila, Kennedy Mweene, and Joseph Musonda. The friendly match is set to kick off at 15:00 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Shepande further noted that some team members have recovered in good time to participate in the game, indicating that the squad will still be able to field a competitive lineup. The association's priority remains the health and safety of the team members, with Shepande expressing his hopes and prayers for the swift recovery of all affected individuals. The cause of the suspected food poisoning has not yet been disclosed, and FAZ has not announced whether any investigations are currently underway.