A pall of sadness has descended upon Zambian football following a devastating bus crash that claimed the lives of seven players from Chavuma Town Council FC.
The accident, which occurred on Saturday while the team was traveling to a third-tier league game in northwest Zambia, has sent shockwaves through the country’s football community. The Football Association of Zambia (Faz) expressed its “deep shock” at the tragedy, pledging to gather further information from authorities in the province.
Twelve other individuals sustained injuries in the crash, with five of them requiring evacuation to the capital Lusaka for treatment. The names of those killed and injured have not yet been publicly released.
Expressions of sorrow and condolences have poured in from various football organizations, including the Confederation of African Football (Caf). Caf president Patrice Motsepe expressed his condolences and offered prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. He extended his deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and the Football Association of Zambia.
The president of the Council of Southern Africa’s regional football associations, Artur de Almeida e Silva, described the loss of young lives as “truly heartbreaking.” He recognized the unifying power of football and extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and friends, offering support and prayers for those still undergoing treatment.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unifying power of football, which brings joy and pride to communities across the region. The loss of these young players is a profound tragedy for Zambian football, and the entire football family shares in the grief and offers support during this difficult time.