We miss representing our country, Divine Lunga tells authorities

Zimbabwe international Divine Lunga has become the latest footballer to speak out on the FIFA ban, saying they miss representing their country.

FIFA banned Zimbabwe for political interference after the government removed the ZIFA board, citing corruption and sexual abuse allegations.

The ban has seen the national team missing out on AFCON qualifiers and COSAFA tournaments which has affected many players in the country.

The lack of international football affects any ambitious player that may want to play outside the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and in Europe, where national team caps become an important factor for African players.

In the past, Zimbabwe has produced the likes of Peter Ndlovu, Benjani Mwaruwari, Tinashe Nengomasha, Marshall Munetsi, Knowledge Musona, Khama Billiat and many other great talents that have graced the PSL and Europe.

As much as the left-back didn’t want to say much on the issue, he admitted that it was a very tough situation and sensitive. He hopes for quick solutions, as they miss representing their nation on big stages.  

“For us, as players, it is hard, tough and sensitive, so I don’t know what to say but hoping they can sort it out, so we can go back to the national team and play,” Divine Lunga told the media after their DStv Premiership win against Chippa United.

The ban has deprived the young upcoming talents of getting an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Peter Ndlovu to play in competitive leagues. 

Lunga urged them not to allow the situation to get over them. Instead, they must use it to work extra hard because anything can happen in football.

“All I can say is everyone must work hard. If you work hard, teams from the PSL will see you, so I urge them to keep on working hard and not give up.”