Zambia goalkeeper Hazel Nali has successfully undergone an operation at a hospital in New Zealand.
The Copper Queens custodian confirmed the surgery on her Facebook page by writing: “This is to inform people of Zambia and everyone around the world about my successful knee surgery in Christchurch, New Zealand August 16,” adding: “I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Government of the Republic of Zambia through Honourable Minister of Youth, Sport, and Art, Honourable Elvis Nkandu, Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), the Zambians In Aotearoa Association Inc and Dr. Elias Munshya the High Commission of Zambia to Australia and New Zealand who have been instrumental in helping facilitate the necessary arrangements.”
The statement continued: “To the Zambian people thank you for the special prayers, encouraging messages, and love rendered to me during this trying moment of my football career, I must admit it’s been a very difficult period with mixed emotions. To my family and friends (Copper Queens) this one is for you.”
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The player will remain in the facility overnight and is due to be discharged on Thursday. Nali will be subjected to rehabilitation after five days from the date of the procedure. The 2022 WAFCON bronze medalist will remain in New Zealand for a few weeks before returning home where she will be recuperating.
The former Green Buffaloes player missed the World Cup after she picked a knee injury during a training camp in Germany. The Coppers Queens went on to exit the tournament at the group stage after losing their two opening matches – 5-0 against Japan and 5-0 against Spain.