Seven Chavuma Town footballers killed in bus crash

A devastating bus accident claimed the lives of seven players from Chavuma Town Council FC. The incident occurred Saturday as the team was traveling to compete in a third-tier league match in northwestern Zambia.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) is working closely with local authorities to gather complete details of the accident. "We are in touch with the football, civil and law enforcement authorities in the province," FAZ president Andrew Kamanga said, expressing the organisation's "deep shock" at the news.

The crash also left twelve others injured, with five cases serious enough to require evacuation to Lusaka for medical care. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased or injured individuals.

The football community has responded with an outpouring of support and condolences. Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), extended his personal sympathies and those of the organization, praying for the full recovery of the injured players. "May God comfort and console the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased and the Football Association of Zambia," he said.

The tragedy's impact has resonated throughout southern African football. Artur de Almeida e Silva, who heads the council of Southern Africa's regional FAs, described the loss of young lives as "truly heartbreaking".

"Football is a sport that unites us, bringing joy and pride to communities across our region," he wrote, extending support to those affected and expressing hope for the recovery of the injured players.