Banda, Kundananji and Chilufya face NWSL return delay after Zambia duty
The NWSL has confirmed that Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji and Prisca Chilufya cannot immediately return to club action after Zambia duty because they must comply with United States re-entry health rules.
Re-entry delay confirmed
The three Zambia internationals travelled to Kampala for an Olympic qualifying tie against Uganda earlier this month. Zambia recovered from a 2-1 defeat in the first leg by winning 4-1 at home, booking a place at Los Angeles 2028.
But their return to the United States has been delayed by mandatory public-health procedures for travellers who have recently been in parts of East Africa. The league said the players are following federal protocols after the international window.
The NWSL added that it is working alongside the clubs and US immigration officials to arrange a safe return, stressing that all three players are healthy.
Why the players are unavailable
US authorities have imposed a compulsory 21-day quarantine for arrivals who have visited the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda or South Sudan, amid increased health concerns across central and eastern Africa.
- Banda is set to miss time with Orlando Pride.
- Chicago Stars forward Kundananji is also affected.
- Angel City winger Chilufya is subject to the same restrictions.
- The measure applies despite the players having no reported health problems.
The current emergency was declared in mid-May after a sharp rise in cases in eastern Congo. The country’s health ministry has reported 9,066 cases and 4,381 deaths, while imported cases have also recently reached Uganda and Kenya.
Playoff race impact
The disruption comes with only two regular-season rounds remaining before the NWSL playoffs. Pride and Stars are both facing important matches as they try to protect their postseason positions, but will do so without key attacking options.
Angel City must also plan without Chilufya while the league, immigration officials and clubs work through the required process. The next step is completion of the 21-day re-entry period before the Zambian trio can resume training and match duties.
