'Deep shock': Seven Zambian footballers killed in bus crash on way to match
Seven players from a Zambian football team have been killed in a bus crash in the country's north-west.
The players from the Chavuma Town Council FC were travelling to a third-tier league game when the crash happened.
Twelve other people were injured and five were taken to the capital Lusaka for treatment.
READ MORE: Matildas reap Olympic revenge with 'historic win'
READ MORE: 'Distractions' could force Cobbo out of battling Broncos
READ MORE: Star faces axe for 'unforgivable' act before epic play
The country's football association said the accident was a "deep shock".
"We are in touch with the football, civil and law enforcement authorities in the province to furnish us with full details," president Andrew Kamanga said, per the BBC.
Seven Zambian footballers were killed in a bus crash on their way to a match. Getty
Artur de Almeida e Silva, who heads the council of Southern Africa's regional associations, said the loss was "truly heartbreaking".
"Football is a sport that unites us, bringing joy and pride to communities across our region," he said.
"In this tragic moment, we share in your grief and offer our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends who are mourning this immense loss.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are still receiving treatment for their injuries."
Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe offered his and the associations "deepest condolences".
The names of those killed have not been released.
