Zambia will take on Russia in an international friendly this June in Moscow, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has confirmed. Scheduled during the FIFA window, the high-profile encounter will serve as crucial preparation for the Chipolopolo ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
FAZ Secretary General Reuben Kamanga revealed that the fixture reflects the longstanding diplomatic ties between Zambia and Russia.
“This match is more than just football—it highlights the historical friendship between our nations,” Kamanga stated.
The idea for the friendly took root during a meeting in May 2024 between Russian Ambassador to Zambia, Azim Yarakhmedov, and FAZ President, Andrew Kamanga.
The talks aimed to deepen football cooperation between the two countries, ultimately resulting in the planned fixture.
A Delayed Celebration of Independence
Initially, the friendly was intended to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Zambia’s independence, celebrated on October 24, 2024.
However, logistical delays pushed the event into the following year. Despite the postponement, FAZ officials emphasize that the spirit of the occasion remains intact.
“This game still stands as a tribute to our independence and the enduring ties between Zambia and Russia,” said Kamanga. “We are proud to see it finally happening.”
The FAZ is expected to announce the exact date and stadium for the match in the coming weeks, with both football federations finalizing logistical details.
A Vital Test Ahead of AFCON 2025
For Zambia, the clash against Russia offers more than just diplomatic symbolism. It presents an opportunity for coach Avram Grant and his technical team to assess the squad’s readiness for the 2025 AFCON.
Facing a seasoned European side like Russia will provide a valuable benchmark for the Chipolopolo as they fine-tune their strategies for the continental tournament.
“This is a perfect test for us,” noted Kamanga. “Russia is a quality side with a different style of play compared to what we encounter in Africa.
It will push our players and highlight areas where we need improvement.”
The fixture will also give Grant a chance to evaluate individual performances and experiment with tactics against a physically strong and tactically disciplined opponent.
With AFCON fast approaching, Zambia’s technical staff view the friendly as a key component of their preparation.
Russia’s Return to International Friendlies
For Russia, the match against Zambia continues their effort to maintain international football engagements despite the ongoing restrictions imposed by European governing bodies.
Since 2022, Russia has been organizing friendly matches with countries outside of UEFA’s competitive calendar to keep their national team active.
This friendly adds to Russia’s growing list of fixtures aimed at strengthening football ties beyond Europe and maintaining the squad’s competitive edge.
Zambia’s Broader Strategic Goals
Beyond the upcoming AFCON, the match aligns with Zambia’s broader vision of raising the Chipolopolo’s global profile.
The FAZ has made it clear that engaging in international friendlies against strong non-African teams is part of their long-term plan to elevate Zambian football.
“Our ambition is to see Zambian football thrive not only in Africa but on the global stage,” Kamanga affirmed. “Games like this are steps toward that goal.”
As anticipation builds for the Moscow clash, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Chipolopolo will perform against a seasoned Russian side.
For Zambia, the match represents both a diplomatic gesture and a vital sporting challenge, as the team eyes success in Morocco next year.
