Zambia’s Chipolopolo have received a major financial boost ahead of their 2010 World/Africa Cup qualifier against Rwanda due on June 6 in Lusaka.

The Football Association of Zambia (Faz) clinched a $600,000 (Frw. 333 millions) worth of sponsorship deal for the national team from a local brewery.

The two-year deal with Zambian Breweries will be the biggest sponsorship package in -Chipolopolo’s history.

The money will go towards the costs of the 2010 World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series. Although the package is a major boost for the team, Zambia’s football is still faced with many financial challenges.

Faz is struggling to pay Chipolopolo coach Herve Renard after a local copper mining company withdrew its offer to pay the Frenchman’s salary. The global financial crisis was cited as the reason for the withdrawal, and four clubs have also lost sponsorship deals.

Economic constraints mean that Zambian Breweries’ decision to support the Chipolopolo sees the end of its 48-year-old marriage with the country’s oldest club competition, the Mosi Cup.

Faz spokesperson Emmanuel Munaile believes the deal is boost to a team that has traditionally relied on government support for its international commitments.

"I’m sure this will motivate our boys in Zambia’s quest to qualify for their maiden World Cup finals,” he said.

Zambia made a great start to their World Cup qualifying campaign, drawing 1-1 away to African champions last Sunday.

Zambia play their second qualifier against Rwanda at home in Lusaka on June 6 as Algeria hosts Egypt on June 7.

Ends