August 04, (THEWILL) – Zambia women’s football team has come under scrutiny following allegations of misconduct involving their coach, Bruce Mwape, during the current World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
FIFA has initiated an investigation into the claims, which reportedly involve Mwape rubbing a player’s breasts after a training session. Despite denials from Mwape, FIFA and local authorities are taking the allegations seriously, with both police and football officials looking into the matter.
The Football Association of Zambia has asserted its commitment to integrity and transparency and stated that it would take disciplinary action pending an official complaint or evidence.
THEWILL recalls that Zambian women’s national team faced a challenging World Cup campaign, and were eliminated in the group stage after losses to Spain and Japan before clinching their first-ever World Cup victory against Costa Rica. Amidst their performance on the field, the team has been confronted by off-field controversies, as allegations of improper conduct have marred their reputation.
While the Football Association of Zambia asserts its surprise at the allegations, FIFA’s intensified focus on addressing sexual assault and harassment in the sport reflects the wider global push for accountability and change. The outcome of the investigation will shed light on the integrity of Zambia’s women’s football program and its adherence to FIFA’s revised Code of Ethics.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.