The Copper Queens have discovered their opponents for the 13th edition of the HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women’s Championship after being drawn into a competitive Group B. Zambia will face familiar Southern African rivals Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Eswatini in the group stage of the tournament. The championship is scheduled to take place in Polokwane, South Africa, from February 18 to March 1, 2026. The draw, conducted yesterday, sets up a series of intriguing regional clashes that promise to test Zambia’s strength, tactics, and squad depth. This will be an opportunity for the Copper Queens to assert their regional dominance and build momentum ahead of other international commitments.
Group A of the tournament features hosts South Africa, 2023 champions Malawi, Lesotho, and Angola, ensuring a highly competitive lineup in the first group. Group C will see Mozambique, Namibia, and Madagascar battle for qualification to the knockout stages. The COSAFA Women’s Championship continues to showcase the region’s top talent and provides a platform for emerging players to gain valuable international experience. Zambia’s placement in Group B guarantees high-stakes matches that will challenge the team’s tactical adaptability and cohesion.
The competition presents a unique scenario for Zambia, as the COSAFA Women’s Championship will coincide with another major international assignment for the senior national team. This scheduling challenge may require careful squad rotation and strategic management by the coaching staff. The tournament offers an opportunity for younger players to gain experience while allowing senior squad members to maintain peak performance. The Copper Queens’ management has indicated plans to balance player commitments effectively to remain competitive in both events.
For Zambia, the group stage fixtures will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the tournament. Matches against Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Eswatini are expected to be tightly contested, given the familiarity among these regional rivals. Strong performances in these games could provide Zambia with a pathway to the knockout rounds, where the competition intensifies. The tournament will also serve as preparation for upcoming continental qualifiers and international fixtures.
As the Copper Queens prepare for the championship, attention will focus on squad selection, fitness, and tactical preparation. Fans across Zambia and the Southern African region are expected to follow the team closely, eager to witness the nation’s top women footballers in action. With a competitive group and high expectations, Zambia aims to make a strong statement at the 2026 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women’s Championship, continuing its tradition of excellence in regional women’s football.
