Zambian doctor in Fifa doping duty during Nigeria/Ghana match collapses and dies

ZAMBIAN doctor Dr Joseph Kabungo who served as the Fifa doctor at the recent Nigeria vs Ghana World Cup play-off in Abuja has been confirmed dead after he collapsed at the end of the game and gave up the ghost.

Dr Kabungo, who was employed as a doping officer for the tie at the Moshood Abiola Stadium Abuja, passed away in unconfirmed circumstances. News of his death was announced by his home association, the Zambian FA, this morning.

Zambian Football Association  president Andrew Kamanga, said: “Today we mourn the passing of our Caf/Fifa medical officer Dr Joseph Kabungo who was on duty as a doping officer in Tuesday’s match involving Nigeria and Ghana. We extend our sincere condolences to Dr Kabungo’s family and the football family at large.

“We take note that it is too early to dwell into the nitty-gritty of the cause of his death but will wait for the full report from Caf and Fifa on what exactly transpired. His death is a huge loss as Dr Kabungo was a friend and confidant to many generations of players and their families.”

In the game Nigeria suffered an away-goals defeat to Ghana as the Black Stars qualified for the World Cup in Qatar following the 1-1 draw.  Following the game, fans stormed the pitch and clashed with police but there is currently no indication that the unrest was linked to Dr Kabungo’s death.

Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (Cosafa) general secretary, Sue Destombes said: "It is a great and sad loss to the Cosafa zone, Dr Kabungo was always giving of his time and his expertise. He was a fine human being and will be sorely missed by everyone in our region.”