The Football Association of Zambia has canceled a friendly match between Zambia and South Africa which was scheduled for this Saturday owing to xenophobic attacks in that country.

This is according to a statement issued by FAZ communications manager Mwazi Chanda today.

FAZ General Secretary Adrian Kashala made the announcement in a statement saying that the decision was arrived at in consultation with the South African Football Association (SAFA).

Kashala said Zambia would instead play Namibia on September 9, 2019 in Windhoek.

“FAZ has instead opted to play Namibia on Monday in order to ensure that the Chipolopolo does not miss out on playing competitive football during the FIFA window,” stated Kashala.

“Our game with South Africa has been pushed to the next FIFA window.”

Zambia was scheduled to play South Africa on Saturday at National Heroes Stadium in an international friendly match.

The Chipolopolo is expected to leave for Namibia on Saturday.

Chipolopolo coach Aggrey Chiyangi has summoned nine foreign based players for the international friendly match.