FAZ mute over marijuana allegations 

By MICHAEL MIYOBA

THE Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has remained mute over the expulsion of Copper Queens midfielder Xiomala Mapepa in South Korea.

Mapepa was a second half substitute as Zambia suffered a 5-2 bashing by South Korea in the first international friendly match played on Friday at the Suwon World Cup Stadium in Seoul.

According to sources close to the team, the Elite Ladies midfielder who is the top scorer of the FAZ Women’s Super League was reported to FAZ officials and compelled them to take action.

FAZ acting General Secretary Iva Lengwe could not confirm the allegations but noted that Mapepa has been released from national duty, a decision which was arrived at by the Copper Queens team management and the host nation. “FAZ has in liaison with the team management and the host nation arrived at the decision that was made in line with the disciplinary code of conduct and also basic standards of conduct on foreign soil,” Lengwe said. Lengwe noted that the team is focused on tomorrow’s international friendly match against South Korea to conclude the international window action.

“South Korea provided a very good test for our team as it is the level that we will be expecting at the World Cup.”

The Copper Queens are using the friendlies in South Korea to prepare for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia/New Zealand.

Zambia is among 32 teams that have qualified for the championship and will compete in Group C alongside Spain, Japan and Costa Rica.