FAZ President Andrew Kamanga Explains UAE Choice for Friendly Matches
Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President Andrew Kamanga has provided insight into the decision to play Chipolopolo Boys’ friendly matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In his weekly update, the “President’s Corner,” Kamanga addressed the challenges associated with hosting games in Zambia due to the current condition of stadiums.
Levy Mwanawasa Stadium and the National Heroes Stadium are both in poor condition, with Levy Stadium even closed for renovations. Kamanga explained, “We have taken note of the cry for fans to watch these friendly matches on home soil, but regrettably our current stadium situation makes it hard to host a FIFA sanctioned match.”
Given the limited time available to regroup, the decision was made to settle for a location that is easily accessible to players traveling from Europe and other regions. Kamanga emphasized that their commitment to preparing national teams with quality friendly matches remains a top priority.
He also noted the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers in November and the Africa Cup of Nations in January, emphasizing that there won’t be many opportunities to play quality friendly matches before these important tournaments.
The Chipolopolo Boys are currently in Dubai for the international friendly match against Egypt on October 12, followed by a match against Uganda on October 17. Coach Avram Grant has summoned 25 players for duty as part of preparations for the upcoming qualifiers.
The draws for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to be held in Ivory Coast in January, will take place in Abidjan, and Kamanga mentioned that these draws will help refine their plans for preparations.
This decision to play friendly matches in the UAE reflects the challenges that some national teams face when it comes to the condition of their home stadiums, which can impact their ability to host FIFA-sanctioned matches.
