The President of Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) and the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), Dr Phillip Chiyangwa would like to express his shock and profound grief following the death of eight people in a stampede before a football match in Malawi on Thursday.

“It is a saddening incident that cuts deep into our hearts and souls, and the very soul of the game that such a tragedy has claimed so many lives, including those of seven children,” Dr Chiyangwa said.

“During this difficult period, we mourn with the people of Malawi and pray that they will find comfort in the hands of the Lord. We also pray for a speedy recovery of the injured.

“The said irony of it is that what should have been a joyous day of celebration of Uhuru, marking their 53rd Independence Anniversary, ended in tragedy.

“On behalf of COSAFA and Zifa and on my own behalf, we are sorry for the incident and may their dear souls rest in eternal peace.”

Source: ZIFA Online