Zambia’s newly appointed head coach, Moses Sichone, has been hospitalised with acute food poisoning, forcing him to miss what would have been his second opportunity to make his debut on the touchline. The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) confirmed the development on Monday, raising fresh concerns just weeks before the national team heads to Morocco for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Sichone, who was unveiled earlier this month after the exit of former coach Avram Grant, fell ill shortly before Zambia’s friendly match against South Africa in Gqeberha on Saturday. The Chipolopolo went on to lose the match 3-1 under assistant coach Perry Mutapa. The team has since travelled to Luanda for another international friendly against Angola on Tuesday, but Sichone has remained behind due to his deteriorating condition.
In an official statement, FAZ revealed that Sichone was not the only one affected. Midfielder Miguel Chaiwa and video analyst Elias Chipota were also admitted to hospital after suffering severe symptoms including fever, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
“The Football Association of Zambia is collaborating with the host association and local medical personnel to ensure the affected individuals receive the highest standard of care,” FAZ stated. General Secretary Machacha Shepande further indicated that several other players displayed milder symptoms but have since recovered.
Sichone’s absence adds a layer of complexity to Zambia’s AFCON build-up, given that the tournament kicks off on December 21. The 48-year-old former FC Cologne defender is expected to play a crucial role in restructuring the squad after a disappointing World Cup qualification campaign that ended in October. As a player, Sichone represented Zambia in three AFCON tournaments between 1998 and 2002, making him one of the country’s most experienced football figures.
Zambia has been drawn into a challenging Group A, where they will face Mali, Comoros, and host nation Morocco. With the clock ticking, FAZ will be hoping for a swift recovery for their new coach as the team continues preparations under acting coach Mutapa.
Sichone’s condition is being closely monitored, and FAZ is expected to provide further updates as the team edges closer to the continental showdown.
Source:Africa Publicity
