As Zambia takes on Japan this Saturday for their first group stage match at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, the Copper Queens are facing a wild controversy revealed by the British press.
Placed in a tough group, Zambia seems to be diminishing its chances of qualifying for the second round of the 2023 Women’s World Cup. As the Copper Queens face Japan this Saturday in their first Group C match, Zambian players are confronted with a crazy rumor.
According to information from the website Relevo, one of the Copper Queens’ players has left the team’s gathering in New Zealand. The Spanish media outlet specifies that it is Grace Chanda (26 years old), the midfielder from Madrid CFF. This information was confirmed by the Zambian Football Federation, which stated that the player left the group due to an injury.
However, this is where the controversy arises, as several media outlets provide a completely different version of the Zambian player’s departure. These sources claim that the Madrilene was dismissed from the squad for “misconduct” and for being a “bad influence” on her teammates.
Allegations of sexual abuse, unpaid bonuses…
According to The Guardian, Grace Chanda’s desertion can be explained by recent allegations made by several Copper Queens players, accusing their coach, Bruce Mwape, of sexual abuse. The rebellious players, led by the midfielder from Madrid CFF, have also protested against the team’s management, citing unpaid bonuses dating back two years.
“Since their arrival at their base camp in New Zealand for the World Cup last week, the players have reportedly engaged in silent protests, including going to training sessions and matches without singing, a usual tradition,” the British tabloid revealed.
Hopefully, this situation does not affect the performance of the Zambian team, who must avoid defeat against the Japanese team in Group C, currently led by Spain after their victory against Costa Rica (3-0) on Friday.
