The Zimbabwe Football Association has announced that the proposed Christmas Challenge Cup between Zimbabwe and Zambia has been cancelled due to the non-availability of the National Sports Stadium on 23 December.

The legends’ match between South Africa and Zimbabwe has also been called-off.

ZIFA’s statement reads:

The Zimbabwe Football Association regrets to inform all football stakeholders that the proposed Christmas Challenge cup between the senior teams of Zimbabwe and Zambia has been cancelled due to the non-availability of the National Sports Stadium on 23 December.

The match between the legends of South African football and their counterparts from Zimbabwe which was supposed to serve as pre-match entertainment has also been called-off.

The association was advised that the facility is booked for a wedding on the same date, therefore, the friendly match cannot go ahead.

ZIFA is concerned by the prioritising of non-sporting events ahead of football matches when it comes to access to the National Sports Stadium.

ZIFA unreservedly apologises to all stakeholders for all inconveniences caused.