On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, striker Norin Betani of the Zambian women’s national team passed away tragically.
The player complained of malaria and was admitted to the University Teaching Hospital, according to a press release issued by the Football Association of Zambia.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) is saddened by the death of Copper Queens and Indeni Roses striker Norin Betani. Betani died on Wednesday morning at the University Teaching Hospital after being diagnosed with suspected malaria.
According to FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga, the player reported sick to camp and, at the team doctor’s recommendation, was sent to the hospital for a comprehensive evaluation. Mr. 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. 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.”
Mr. Kamanga says details of the funeral will be shared in due course.
“For now we urge everyone in the football family to mourn the deceased with dignity and respect the full privacy that medical situations sometimes demand,” he says.
The player was supposed to be part of the team that would face the Ghana BlackQuens in the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifier.
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