Zambia Striker Dies Ahead Of Olympic Games Qualifier Against Black Queens

The Zambian Football Association has announced the death of their Copper Queens and Indeni Roses Football Club striker Norin Betani.

The female striker according to reports was diagnosed with "suspected malaria” but died on Wednesday, February 21, at the University Teaching Hospital.

Betani, 24, was part of the provisional squad for Friday’s 2024 Paris Olympic Games Women’s Football Tournament qualifier against Ghana. 

In a statement, the General Secretary of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), Reuben Kamanga said “We regret to announce the death of one of our female players, Norin Betani, who was in the provisional squad for the Ghana match,” Kamanga said. “Betani was taken to the nearest hospital to the team camp, which is Kanyama Level One Hospital, and FAZ engaged the family at every stage,"

“The patient was referred to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) on Monday and was under medical care until her demise. FAZ secretariat staff, family members, and her club (Indeni Roses) worked closely during the player’s hospitalization."

Kamanga further added that the “player reported to camp whilst unwell and was taken to the hospital for thorough examination on recommendation by team medics.King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/