Copper Queens Camp Day 2 Training Ahead of WAFCON Qualifiers

Copper Queens

LUSAKA — The Copper Queens held their first training session on Sunday as preparations ramp up for Tuesday’s 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations group stage match against Egypt.

The team trained at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Lydex-Terrain 2, where the technical bench used the session to fine-tune tactics ahead of the tournament opener.

Today it is day 2 training for the Copper Queens as they polish their act ahead of their first match against one of the most tricky opponents, Egypt.

Football Association of Zambia officials said the first phase of camp is focused on fitness, tactical work, and player assessment.

Zambia is targeting a strong run in WAFCON as it chases qualification for the 2026 tournament in Morocco.

The Copper Queens have been one of Africa’s most consistent women’s teams in recent years, having featured at the last WAFCON, the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the 2024 Olympic Games.

Head coach Nora Hauptle is expected to use this camp to test new combinations and give opportunities to emerging talent from the FAZ Women’s Super League, while also integrating experienced players like Barbra Banda, Rachael Kundananji, and Grace Chanda once they are released by their clubs.

The mood in camp is reported to be high. Speaking after the first training session, a member of the technical team said: “We are happy to be back together. The girls are motivated and we know what is at stake. WAFCON qualification is our immediate target and we want to start on the right foot.”

With the 2026 WAFCON set to be the biggest edition yet with 12 teams, qualification will be crucial as the Copper Queens continue building toward being a regular force at both continental and global tournaments.

Meanwhile, FAZ General Secretary Charles Chakatazya has challenged the Copper Queens to seize the moment at the WAFCON and write another memorable chapter for Zambian football.

Addressing the players at the team’s hotel in Rabat ahead of the tournament’s kick off, Chakatazya reminded the players that they carried the hopes of more than 22 million Zambians after being selected in the final 26-member squad.

“In opportunities like these you are representing a lot of players in Zambia. The coach picked 26 of you to represent over 22 million Zambian people, Most of you played at the World Cup and saw what happened. It changed the lives of a number of you. Those who have been there should encourage those who haven’t because another opportunity is before us.” Chakatazya said.

Chakatazya urged the players to remain united and fully support the technical bench as they chase another FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification through a strong WAFCON campaign.

“Let’s work hard, support the coach and the technical bench. We should support our friends; no pointing fingers. Once you are a team, when one makes a mistake you coverup, correct the mistake and talk later,” he said.

Chakatazya also confirmed that matters relating to the players’ welfare had received attention from the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts ahead of the tournament, a move that will make the squad turn its full focus to preparations.

“You have already started receiving your monies; the Ministry has already started paying. So we now have this opportunity to concentrate, train hard and qualify for the World Cup,” he said.

Chakatazya encouraged the players to dream big, adding that another World Cup appearance would open even greater opportunities before setting their sights on continental glory.

He also informed the team that FAZ President Keith Mweemba is expected to join the delegation in Morocco on Monday to deliver a final message of encouragement before Zambia’s opening match.

The Copper Queens are drawn in group C with Malawi, Nigeria and Egypt; with the team’s first group stage match set for Tuesday July 28, 2026 at 18h00 CAT.

*Copper Queens Camp Squad*

Goalkeepers: Chishala Mfunte, Catherine Musonda, Hazel Nali
Defenders: Margaret Belemu, Margaret Gondwe, Rachael Nachula, Blessing Maluba, Siomala Mapepa, Saliya Mwanza, Lushomo Mweemba, Martha Tembo
Midfielders: Susan Banda, Grace Chanda, Hellen Chanda, Rhodah Chileshe, Avell Chitundu, Evarine Katongo, Ireen Lungu
Strikers: Barbra Banda, Prisca Chilufya, Mercy Chipasula, Eneless Phiri, Rachael Kundananji, Kabange Mupopo, Ochuma Oseke