The Zambian women’s football landscape is on the rise, with remarkable potential evident in the country’s U17 and U20 squads. These young teams have consistently demonstrated exceptional skills in possession-based football, tactical discipline, and midfield dominance. Players like Namute Chileshe, Mercy Chipasula, Lungowe Namasiku, and Ruth Muwowo showcase the firepower in attack, yet their style of play is rooted in strategy and team cohesion, not just raw athleticism.
A shining example of Zambia’s promising talent was seen at the recent COSAFA showcase, where the youth teams displayed a remarkable ability to control the game through possession football and precise tactical execution. Despite the evident success of this approach, the question arises: why has this style not yet been fully adopted at the senior level with the Copper Queens?
The Potential of the Copper Queens
The senior team, while talented, has yet to consistently embrace possession-based football. With a wealth of skilled players in the current setup, Zambia has the potential to solidify its place as a powerhouse in African football. Blessings Maluba, a standout U20 midfielder, is a prime example. Her composure on the ball, clean passing, and powerful shots position her as the ideal defensive midfielder for the senior team. If integrated into the Copper Queens, Maluba could provide the much-needed balance between defense and attack, bringing control and creativity to the midfield.
Similarly, players like Taonga Mubanga from the U17 squad represent the future of Zambian football. Mubanga’s box-to-box prowess could offer a long-term solution in midfield, adding both defensive stability and attacking verve.
Scouting, Planning, and Integration
The key to Zambia’s success lies in careful scouting, planning, and gradual integration of emerging talent into the senior team. Players such as Mwila Mufunte (goalkeeper), Saliya Mwanza (fullback), Margaret Gondwe and Jessy Zulu (center-backs), and the dynamic Blessings Zangose Zulu (box-to-box midfielder) should be prioritized due to their technical abilities. Combining their skills with experienced players like Grace Chanda—despite recent injury struggles—could form a well-rounded and competitive squad capable of competing at the highest level.
With the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) fast approaching, there is an urgent need for change. The Copper Queens require fresh perspectives on the technical bench to guide the team forward. Appointing a new coach, assistant coach, and technical advisor who prioritize tactical play, long-term player development, and the integration of emerging stars could revolutionize the team.
The Need for Successors and Long-Term Strategy
The current senior team includes aging players such as Susan Banda, Rachael Nachula, and Kabange Mupopo, whose contributions have been invaluable. However, without a clear strategy to identify and develop successors, Zambia risks being unprepared for future challenges. To ensure the Copper Queens remain competitive on the African stage, the focus must shift to sustainable player development and strategic planning.
The time to act is now. Zambia’s women’s football team has an abundance of talent at its disposal, and embracing a possession-based style of play, coupled with tactical discipline, could see the Copper Queens dominate African football for years to come. The integration of young talents, like Blessings Maluba and Taonga Mubanga, alongside seasoned players, is key to ensuring the team’s long-term success. With WAFCON on the horizon, Zambia must harness its potential and make the necessary changes to secure a bright future in women’s football.
Source: African Football With Uncle Luck
