The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has decided to remove four players from the National Women`s team roster for the upcoming Yongchuan International Tournament in China this month. This decision is attributed to worries about the latest travel regulations implemented by the United States.
Barbra Banda, Grace Chanda, and Prisca Chilufya from Orlando Pride, along with Rachael Kundananji of Bay FC, were initially selected for the tournament. However, these players will no longer be traveling to China during this international break. The FAZ aims to prevent any complications they might face when attempting to re-enter the U.S. to rejoin their respective club teams.
According to FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga, the withdrawal of these four players is due to “additional travel measures introduced by the new administration in the United States of America.” The FAZ stated on Wednesday that this decision was made based on advice from key sources, including the Zambian mission in Washington D.C. and the players` clubs. They concluded that withdrawing the players from the China assignment was the most prudent course of action.
It is anticipated that these players will be available for selection in future matches.
The specific U.S. travel policies causing concern for the FAZ remain unclear. However, recent reports indicate that under the current U.S. administration, foreign-born individuals, even those holding valid tourist permits or work visas, have faced detentions at the border. Green card holders have also reportedly been detained and transferred to ICE facilities.
