NO MISSILES

By BARNABAS ZULU

FOOTBALL Association of Zambia President Andrew Kamanga has urged fans not to throw missiles onto the pitch during upcoming matches, warning that such actions could lead to serious sanctions against the country.
Kamanga’s comments come ahead of Zambia’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Ivory Coast at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola this Friday.
“We are sitting precariously in the eyes of football authorities and do not want to face any sanctions as a result of fans exhibiting stone-age behaviour,” Kamanga said in a statement.
“We urge all supporters to show their best behaviour and not throw missiles on the pitch, as we risk a ban.”
Kamanga’s plea comes after previous incidents where fans have thrown objects onto the pitch in protest or celebration, a practice that can lead to disciplinary measures from both local and international football governing bodies. With Zambia’s qualification hopes still very much alive, Kamanga stressed the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere at the stadium.
The Chipolopolo will face Ivory Coast at in a crucial Group G match for the Morocco 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Kamanga noted that Zambia, currently in second place with seven points, has a strong chance to secure qualification, especially with the match being held at home.
Ivory Coast leads the group with nine points, while Sierra Leone sits third with four points and Chad is at the bottom with two.
“The game against Ivory Coast is going to be a titanic clash as both teams will be looking to consolidate their qualification in a group that remains wide open,” Kamanga said.
“We draw a lot of confidence from the fact that we will be playing at home. The fans have been magnificent at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, and ticket sales are already pointing to a sold-out crowd on Friday.”
He also urged fans who have not yet bought tickets to do so ahead of the match to avoid last-minute rushes.