Barbra Banda joins Copper Queens camp
Copper Queens Captain Barbara Banda, picture credit FAZ Facebook page
The Copper Queens camp has grown to 22 players with the arrival of USA-based trio Barbra Banda, Grace Chanda, and Prisca Chilufya for upcoming FIFA international friendly matches against Botswana and South Africa.
Only Bay FC striker Racheal Kundananji and Israel-based Racheal Nachula are yet to report, with the duo expected to complete the 24-member squad later today and tomorrow.
Coach Nora Häuptle is preparing the team for the 2025 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations by organizing high-profile friendlies, with matches scheduled against Botswana and South Africa in May and June.
The team has been further reinforced with the addition of Turkey-based defenders Martha Tembo and Lushomo Mweemba, China-based players, and a strong local contingent to compete in these key tests within the FIFA international window.
The final 24-member squad includes players from various clubs such as Green Buffaloes, Red Arrows, Indeni Roses, Hakkarigucu Spor-Turkey, and a mix of international-based players providing a diverse and competitive lineup for the upcoming tournaments.
24-MEMBER FINAL SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS
Mwila Chishala Mufunte (Green Buffaloes), Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows), Eunice Sakala (Indeni Roses)
DEFENDERS
Martha Tembo, Lushomo Mweemba (both Hakkarigucu Spor-Turkey), Margaret Belemu (Red Arrows), Margaret Gondwe (Green Buffaloes), Judith Soko (ZESCO Ndola Girls), Pauline Zulu (ZANACO Ladies)
MIDFIELDERS
Ireen Lungu (Sichuan-China), Xiomara Mapepa (Beijing Jingstan FC-China), Racheal Nachula (Hapoel Jerusalem-Israel), Grace Chanda, Prisca Chilufya (both Orlando Pride-USA), Evarine Susan Katongo, Natasha Nanyangwe (both Green Buffaloes), Rhoda Chileshe (Indeni Roses), Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Blue Eagles Queens), Mapalo Maluba (Nchanga Rangers Queens), Mary Wilombe (Red Arrows)
STRIKERS
Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride-USA), Fridah Mukoma (Beijing Jingstan FC-China), Kabange Mupopo (Henan WFC-China), Racheal Kundananji (Bay FC-USA)