The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has confirmed that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a fine following the pitch invasion and security lapses during the September 10, 2024, Group G Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Zambia’s Chipolopolo and Sierra Leone’s Leone Stars.

In a press release issued by FAZ, General Secretary Reuben Kamanga revealed that CAF’s disciplinary board had fined the Football Association of Zambia $20,000 for failing to maintain adequate security measures, which resulted in the pitch invasion by fans during the match.

Kamanga quoted the official correspondence from CAF, stating: “CAF has decided to impose a fine of USD 20,000 for pitch invasion and failure to maintain adequate security measures during the match.

However, USD 10,000 of the fine is suspended on the condition that the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) is not found guilty of a similar incident within the next twelve months. Should another similar violation occur during this period, the suspended $10,000 fine will be automatically applied, in addition to any further sanctions CAF may impose.”

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The press release further clarified that the fine must be paid within 60 days of receiving notification from CAF. Kamanga also urged fans to behave more responsibly in future matches to avoid further penalties.

He emphasized that repeated incidents of fan misbehavior, including throwing missiles or invading the pitch, could lead to serious sanctions, including the possibility of being banned from hosting matches at home.

“We have repeatedly warned fans to desist from throwing missiles on the pitch or invading the pitch during matches either in protest or celebration.

These actions can result in serious consequences. We appeal to our supporters to conduct themselves better in 2025 and make our stadiums safer for families to attend matches,” Kamanga said in the release.