Discussions about holding a friendly football match between the national teams of Zambia and Russia are currently taking place, Raphael Mulenga, Chief Sports Development Officer at the Ministry of Youth and Sport, told Sputnik.
"I want to note that for Zambia, football is a great unifying force. We even joke among ourselves that football is our second religion, reflecting how deep our love for the game is. Regarding the match between Zambia and Russia, it's a good idea! The director of the Russian football organization has already contacted our ministry. Everyone involved in the process is aware of the Russian team's desire. [...] Zambia wishes to play against Russia not only on Russian territory but also on our own. Discussions are currently in progress, and we hope everything will be resolved," Mulenga said.
In February 2022, the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations suspended Russian national teams and clubs from participating in international competitions indefinitely due to the conflict in Ukraine. In the fall of 2023, the organizations clarified that the sanctions would not be lifted until the conclusion of the special military operation.
According to the FIFA ranking, the Russian national team is in 34th place, while Zambia is in 93rd.