Zambian football mourns the loss of seven Chavuma Town Council FC players who were tragically killed in a bus accident.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) expressed “deep shock” at the tragedy, which occurred on Saturday while the squad was on its way to a third-tier league match in the country’s northwestern area.
“We are in contact with the football, civil, and law enforcement authorities in the province to obtain full information,” FAZ president Andrew Kamanga stated.
Twelve more people were injured in the tragedy, five of whom were taken to the capital, Lusaka, for medical treatment.
The identities of the dead and injured have yet to be revealed.
Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), expressed his hopes and prayers for the swift recovery of those injured.
“I convey my personal and CAF’s deepest condolences,” Motsepe added in a statement.
“May God comfort and console the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and the Football Association of Zambia.
“May the souls of the departed players rest in eternal peace.”
Artur de Almeida e Silva, head of the Council of Southern African Regional Football Associations, described the loss of young lives as “truly heartbreaking.”
“Football is a sport that unites us, bringing joy and pride to communities across our region,” he stated in a letter to his FAZ counterpart.
“In this awful moment, we join your grief and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends who are mourning this enormous loss.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are still receiving treatment for their injuries.”