Zambia’s football association has cancelled a friendly match against South Africa scheduled to take place on Saturday in the capital, Lusaka.
The cancellation follows a wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
Zambians have been taking to social media to urge the Football Association of Zambia (Faz) to put off the game between Chipolopolo and Bafana Bafana as a sign of protest.
Faz chief Adrian Kashala has confirmed the decision, adding that the friendly has been rescheduled to an unspecified date after consultations with the South African Football Association (Safa).
Meanwhile, the Zambian government has advised lorry drivers not to travel to South Africa until security improves in the country.
Transport Minister Mutotwe Kafwaya urged Zambian drivers already in South Africa to park their vehicles in safe and secure designated places until the security improved.
The surge in attacks on immigrants has seen mobs loot many foreign-owned shops, torch vehicles and target lorries that were being driven by foreign nationals.
African governments have issued warnings to their citizens over the violence.
more recommended stories
South Africa’s Ndlovu Youth Choir excited despite America’s Got Talent lossSouth Africa’s Ndlovu Youth Choir failed.
Two Journalists attacked in Malawi protestsThere were chaotic scenes in Malawi’s.
No backlash expected from UN General Assembly over xenophobiaThe South African International Relations Minister.
South Africa apologises to Nigeria after attacksABUJA, Nigeria – A South African.
Zambian President Lungu expected in Zimbabwe today for Mugabe’s funeralZambian President Lungu expected in Zimbabwe.
First batch of Nigerians fleeing South Africa arrive homeThe first group of Nigerians fleeing.