The Zambia U-17 Women’s National Team has arrived in Lome, Togo, as preparations intensify for Saturday’s crucial FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final round, second leg qualifier against Benin.
Led by head coach Carol Kanyemba, the 21-member squad landed at Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport at 11:11 local time yesterday aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight. The arrival marks the final phase of the Copper Princesses’ mission to secure back-to-back qualifications for the global tournament.
Zambia carries a slender 2-1 lead from the first leg played at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. Team captain Mercy Chipasula was the standout performer, netting both goals to give the Princesses a vital advantage going into the decisive fixture.
Despite the lead, Zambia will need a strong performance in the return leg, which will be hosted at a neutral venue, to seal their place at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The team is expected to hold several training sessions in Lome to fine-tune their tactics and adapt to the local conditions.
Coach Kanyemba expressed confidence in her team’s readiness and mental strength heading into the clash.
“The girls have shown great discipline and determination throughout this journey. We are focused and committed to completing the task at hand,” she said.
The second leg promises to be a tightly contested affair as Benin will be pushing to overturn the deficit and claim a historic qualification of their own.
With the finish line in sight, the Copper Princesses are determined to make their mark once again on the world stage and continue flying the Zambian flag high in women’s football.