Copper Queens Plot WAFCON Charge As Nigeria Clash Looms
Zambia Step Up Preparations for Morocco 2026
ZAMBIA’S senior women’s national team, popularly known as the Copper Queens, have intensified preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with plans for a two-week training camp in Algeria ahead of the continental tournament in Morocco.
The camp forms a key part of Zambia’s strategy to fine-tune tactics, improve fitness levels and build team cohesion before facing some of Africa’s strongest sides at the championship.
Officials of the Zambia Football Association believe the North African training programme will provide the ideal environment for the team to sharpen its competitive edge before the tournament kicks off later this month.
Confidence High After Kenya Triumph
The Copper Queens head into the tournament buoyed by recent success after emerging champions of a four-nation invitational competition held in Kenya.
Their performances at the tournament highlighted Zambia’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s rising powers in women’s football. The team displayed attacking quality, defensive discipline and resilience against strong opposition, reinforcing confidence ahead of WAFCON.
The victory has also strengthened belief within the squad that they can challenge for honours on the continental stage.
Tough Group Awaits in Morocco
Zambia face a difficult assignment in Group C, where they have been drawn alongside defending champions Nigeria’s Super Falcons, as well as Egypt and Malawi.
The group is widely expected to be one of the most competitive in the tournament, with Nigeria entering as Africa’s most successful women’s football nation and Zambia seeking to establish itself among the continent’s elite.
Particular attention is already focusing on the anticipated clash between the Copper Queens and the Super Falcons, a fixture that could have significant implications for qualification and group leadership.
World Cup Qualification Also at Stake
Beyond the quest for continental glory, the tournament carries added significance because it doubles as Africa’s qualification pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Four African nations will secure automatic qualification places, increasing the importance of every match in Morocco.
For Zambia, the Algeria training camp represents more than routine preparation. It is part of a broader effort to ensure the team arrives at WAFCON ready to compete for both continental success and a place at the global showpiece.
