Copper Queens friendly match with the Netherlands called off

The much anticipated international friendly match between the Zambia Women’s National team and the Netherlands has been canceled following VISA hitches.

The Netherlands FA has confirmed the development in a statement accessed by the ZamFoot Crew. 

According to the statement by the KNVB, despite the efforts by the authorities from both countries it has not been possible for Zambia to travel to Breda. 

“Despite many efforts by the Dutch and Zambian unions and the political authorities involved, it was unfortunately not possible to bring Zambia to the Netherlands for the match that was scheduled for October 6, in the stadium of NAC Breda.

Immediately after the qualification for the World Cup on Tuesday 6 September, the interpretation of the international match in October was examined. This looked at the availability, level and playing style of possible opponents, after which Zambia was contacted. 

Unfortunately, last week it turned out that the visa procedure took longer than originally thought. Despite efforts by the KNVB, the Zambian federation and the ministries involved, it became clear today that it is not possible for the Zambian team to travel to the Netherlands in time.” 

Bruce Mwape named a strong squad to face the Oranje Lionesses on Thursday with the return of Prisca Chilufya, Rachel Kundananji and Rachel Nachula. 

The team has been in camp for over a week preparing for the game with Coach Bruce Mwape and his assistants taking the Queens through their paces in mostly double sessions. 

 The Copper Queens were expected to face the Orange Lionesses in a friendly on Thursday, October 6 at the NAC Breda stadium in Breda.

Both Zambia and Netherlands were supposed to use the match to prepare for the ninth edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup to be jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand in July 2023.