Former Chipolopolo Boys Midfielder Slams Match Officiating

A former Chipolopolo Boys midfielder, Chisamba Lungu, has strongly criticized the standard of match officiating in Zambian football, asserting that it is hindering the sport’s development in the country.

In a Facebook post, the former player expressed his dismay, stating, “This issue of referees favoring teams it’s really killing Zambian football naku division 4 men league and division 2 women shuwa, let’s be serious how is it possible same center referee to officiate 5 games in a row for the same team? First time in my career to see 20 minutes of added time… If you think using referees who are also attached to your teams you are helping to develop the young talent you are running a failed project, you have crossed a wrong lane… I guess we have kept quiet for long, incase you didn’t know Red Lions Football Club is my team…”

Full-time is working on details of the incidents he is referring to but the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has taken action against referees in the past.

For example, in March 2025, FAZ suspended referee Allan Simukonda for poor officiating during a Super League match between Nkana FC and Mufulira Wanderers. Similarly, in December 2024, referee Shem Nyondo was suspended for his performance in a match between Kabwe Warriors and Nkana FC .

These instances highlight a concern within Zambian football regarding the impartiality and competence of match officials.