The Zambian women’s national soccer team has withdrawn four US-based players from an upcoming tournament in China due to travel restrictions instituted by the US government. Players Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, Prisca Chilufya, and Grace Chanda, all active in the NWSL, have been affected. The FAZ has stated that the decision was made to protect the players’ interests amid current travel uncertainties.

Zambia’s women’s national soccer team has announced the withdrawal of four players based in the United States from their squad for an upcoming tournament in China due to travel restrictions implemented by the Biden administration. The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) confirmed that captain Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, Prisca Chilufya, and Grace Chanda will not participate in the Yongchuan International Tournament later this month.

All four players are active in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), with Chanda, Banda, and Kundananji representing Orlando Pride and Chilufya playing for Bay FC. The FAZ emphasized that their decision was influenced by the “additional travel measures” recently enacted by the US government, which may affect the players’ ability to travel internationally.

While it remains uncertain if China will be included on the restrictions list issued by the US, American residents have faced increased challenges when attempting to re-enter the country. FAZ indicated that prioritizing the well-being of the players in this situation was fundamental. “After working through the process instigated by recently introduced measures, it was decided that it is in the best interest of our players to skip this assignment,” stated FAZ general secretary Reuben Kamanga.

Zambia is scheduled to face Thailand on April 5 and will then compete against either host nation China or Uzbekistan on April 8. The four players are expected to be available for future assignments following their absence from this tournament.

The withdrawal of four prominent players from the Zambian women’s national team underscores the challenges posed by international travel restrictions due to changing policies in the United States. The Football Association of Zambia has prioritized the safety of its players, making a strategic decision that emphasizes caution over immediate participation. Future matches remain in focus, as the team prepares for upcoming contests despite these setbacks.

Original Source: www.bbc.com

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