The Zambia National Women’s Football Team, popularly known as the Copper Queens, has intensified its preparations ahead of the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with high-energy training sessions and upcoming international friendlies lined up against Botswana and South Africa.
The squad held its first training session on Wednesday at Clapham High School in Queenswood, Pretoria, marking the official start of their pre-tournament camp as they build momentum for Africa’s premier women’s football competition.
Among the players rejoining the squad is striker Prisca Chilufya, who recently signed with Orlando Pride in the United States. Chilufya expressed her excitement at reuniting with her teammates after more than a year away from national duty.
“It feels good to be back in these colours because these are the famous colours like back home,” said Chilufya. “Whenever I’m around this group, I always feel like I’m representing home and it’s a good feeling, honestly.”
The back-to-back friendlies are seen as crucial match-ups to test the team’s readiness and tactical cohesion. Botswana and South Africa are both familiar opponents in the region, providing Zambia with competitive game time ahead of WAFCON, which is set to feature Africa’s elite women’s teams.
Head Coach Bruce Mwape and his technical bench have emphasized the importance of unity, discipline, and match fitness as key components of the team’s preparation strategy. The squad comprises both seasoned players and emerging talents, many of whom have gained valuable experience playing in foreign leagues.
The return of foreign-based stars like Chilufya adds firepower to the squad, while also bolstering morale among the younger players. The team’s preparations are being closely monitored by Zambian football fans and the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), who are hopeful that the Copper Queens can build on their recent success and make a strong impact at the upcoming WAFCON.
With Zambia continuing to establish itself as a force in women’s football, these friendlies are more than just warm-up matches — they’re opportunities for the Copper Queens to fine-tune their strategies, strengthen on-field chemistry, and show Africa that they mean business.
As the countdown to WAFCON intensifies, all eyes will be on the Copper Queens to see if their blend of experience, talent, and determination can lead them to continental glory.