Visa Hurdles Sideline Four Copper Queens Stars From China Tournament

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Four of Zambia’s top women’s footballers have been withdrawn from the national squad ahead of upcoming international matches due to new travel complications involving the United States.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) announced on Wednesday that team captain Barbra Banda, along with Racheal Kundananji, Prisca Chilufya, and Grace Chanda—all currently playing for U.S.-based clubs—will not be part of the Copper Queens lineup for the Yangcheng International Tournament in China.

The FAZ cited "additional travel measures" introduced by the current U.S. administration as the reason behind the players’ absence. While specifics were not disclosed, reports suggest that recent changes have made it harder for individuals traveling to and from the U.S., with increased scrutiny and potential visa complications.

“I can confirm that Barbra Banda, Grace Chanda, and Prisca Chilufya of Orlando Pride, along with Racheal Kundananji of Bay FC, will not be available for the two friendly matches in China,” said FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga in a statement. “After navigating the challenges brought by these newly introduced travel protocols, we’ve decided it's in the players' best interest to sit this one out.”

Kamanga stressed that this was a precautionary move and reassured fans that the players would be available for future matches, noting their recent participation in Zambia’s friendlies against Malawi.

The decision was reportedly made following consultations with the U.S. Zambian mission in Washington, D.C., and the players’ respective clubs.

Despite the setback, Zambia’s women’s national team remains focused on the task ahead. The Copper Queens will face Thailand on April 5 in Chongqing, China, with a chance to play either the host nation or Uzbekistan in the final on April 8.

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