GUEST STORY: MIGHTY WARRIORS PULL NO SHOW STUNT

The much anticipated Tokyo 2020 second leg encounter between Zambia and Zimbabwe failed to take-off after a no-show stunt by the Mighty Warriors.

Bruce Mwape’s Copper Queens were greeted to an empty stadium when they arrived at the National Sports Stadium at 13:30 hours.

Gate minders were positioned at the entrance with Zambia supporters led by Zambia Sports Fans Association president pastor Peter Makembo encamped at National Sports Stadium.

The Zambian team were holed up in the dressing room and proceeded for the requisite warm up after match officials conducted the inspection.

Match officials from Lesotho were led by centre referee Setoko Theresia, Agness Mahomo (first assistant), Polotso Maapara (second assistant) and Mathabo Kolokotoane (fourth official).

The Zambian team warmed up and after going through the paces went back to the dressing room where they were communicated to that the match would not take place.


Zimbabwe Football Association officials said that clubs withdrew some players from the national team 24 hours before the clash with Zambia.

The Match commissioner was Lida Manjate from Mozambique.


Zambia won the first leg 5-0 in Lusaka and was looking to finish off the tie.

The Copper Queens will await communication from FIFA over the outcome of the un-played match.

Zambian High Commissioner to Zimbabwe Emmanuel Chenda who is a former FAZ treasurer addressed the players urging them not to be discouraged after the no-show by their opponents.

The Copper Queens fly back to Zambia on Monday aboard Emirates Airlines.