Report: Orlando Pride VP files FIFA grievance with Zambia over Grace Chanda injury

The NWSL club is filing the grievance as they believe Zambia didn't provide adequate care for their midfielder following an injury

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Orlando Pride General Manager and Vice President of Soccer Operations Haley Carter has filed a grievance with FIFA against the Football Association of Zambia on behalf of new signing and midfielder Grace Chanda, according to reports.

  The NWSL is filing the grievance due to "failure to provide a reasonable standard of care for player health and safety," according to African media outlet Bolanews.

  Chanda signed with Orlando on May 30 and was set to make her first appearance with the club following the Olympics. With the 27-year-old suffering a ruptured quadriceps tendon against the U.S. in Zambia's opening match, she is out for the season.

NWSL

Chicago Red Stars
Chicago Red Stars
2024-09-08T22:00:00.000Z22:00

Orlando Pride
Orlando Pride
• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Chanda's injury robs the first-place Pride of an addition they were counting to build upon an impressive season. Chanda has scored 19 goals in 31 appearances with the national team.

  "[Chanda was asked] to continue training and play in the opening match post-injury," Carter posted on X.

  Carter also added the following via a statement earlier this month to ESPN: "We are incredibly disappointed for Grace at this injury and how it occurred....Fortunately, she is under the best possible care with our medical and performance teams here at the club and through Orlando Health. While her debut in purple will be later than planned, it's imperative we prioritize her health and welfare through a safe and responsible return to the pitch."

• ZAMBIA'S ISSUES

  This isn't the only controversy Zambia is accused of. Zambia's football operations were already being investigated due to allegations of misconduct involving head coach Bruce Mwape.

• WHAT NEXT FOR CHANDA AND ORLANDO?

  Chanda is now on the season-ending injury list and will continue treatment. Orlando hope to march forward when they host Gotham FC on Sept. 1