2023 Women's World Cup: on D-1, Zambia entangled in a crazy rumor

As Zambia faces Japan this Saturday for its first group match at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, the Chipolopolos Dames are facing a crazy controversy revealed by the British press.

Housed in a fairly tough group, Zambia seems to be exhausting its chances of qualifying for the second round of the 2023 Women’s World Cup. While the Chipolopolos Dames face Japan this Saturday for their first match in Group C, the Zambians face a crazy rumor.

According to information from the Relevo site, a Copper Queens player left the gathering in New Zealand. The Spanish media specifies that it is Madrid CFF midfielder, Grace Chanda (26 years old). Information confirmed by the Zambian Football Federation which claims that its player left the group due to an injury.

And this is where the controversy comes, because several media give a completely different version of the departure of the Zambian player. These sources believe that the Madrilenian was dismissed from the selection for “indiscipline” and “bad influence” on her teammates.

‼️ Según cuenta @SandraRiquelme_ In the news, the Zambian player GRACE CHANDA will be replaced in the selection

❌ Some local media have an injury such as the cause, but it also means that there are accusations of protests by the authorities of the Federation pic.twitter.com/xvOqb5F8mD

— Era Fútbol Femenino (@Erafutbolfem) July 21, 2023

Accusations of sexual abuse, unpaid bonuses…

According to The Guardian, this desertion of Grace Chanda could be explained by the accusations recently made by several Copper Queens players who accused their coach Bruce Mwape of sexual abuse. The rebels, of which the Madrid CFF midfielder would be the leader, had also protested against the management of the team, with bonus arrears dating back two years.

“Since arriving at their base camp in New Zealand for the World Cup last week, the players have reportedly taken part in silent protests which consisted of traveling to training and matches without singing, a common tradition”notably revealed the British tabloid.

I hope this situation does not affect the performance of the Zambians who must avoid defeat against the Japanese team in this group C, guarded by Spain after its victory against Costa Rica (3-0) on Friday.