Copper Queens goalkeeper Hazel Nali has opened up about the devastating knee injury that threatened to end her career and left her fearing she might never walk properly or play football again. 

Days before the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, it was announced that Nali suffered laxity in the Medial Collateral Ligament and a complete tear of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL).

Since then, it has been a long road to recovery for the 25-year-old shot-stopper, who remained behind in New Zealand to undergo surgery after the World Cup. 

Last week, Nali returned to Zambia after spending the last four months on the mend. 

Yesterday, she took to Facebook, revealing her worst fears while paying gratitude for the support she has been receiving during her road to recovery. 

“The injury almost made me lose hope of ever going to play and walk nicely on both legs but the unmatched love and care in New Zealand gave me some hope,” Nali revealed. “I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude towards my stay in New Zealand. Dr. Mwandila and the family, you played the role of a Guardian Angel in my life; you really gave me another home at the moment I was down. God bless [you] abundantly.” 

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Nali hailed Dr. Elias Munshya, the High Commissioner to Australia and New Zealand for his efforts and kind words. 

She ended her post with a promise to return to the pitch one day. 

“Finally, I have massive hope of relighting my career on the field of play within the possible time…I will be back,” she wrote.