The Zambia Under-17 Women’s National Team has arrived in Kigali, Rwanda, as they prepare for a key international assignment in their 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualification campaign. The team landed at Kigali International Airport this afternoon and immediately moved into their preparation phase for the first leg match against Rwanda. Spirits within the camp remain high, with players and technical staff showing strong focus ahead of the important encounter scheduled for April 17, 2026. The fixture marks an early and significant test for Zambia as they aim to build momentum in the qualification pathway. Attention now shifts to final tactical adjustments and recovery after travel as the team settles into their base in Kigali.
The arrival in Rwanda signals the beginning of a tightly managed preparation period for Zambia, who understand the importance of starting the qualifying campaign with a strong performance. The technical bench is expected to prioritize organization, discipline, and sharpness in training sessions leading up to match day. Players will also focus on adapting to local conditions, including pitch familiarity and climate, which can play a role in international fixtures at youth level. The squad brings together a mix of emerging talent and structured development from Zambia’s growing women’s football system. Confidence remains evident within the group, driven by recent progress in youth competitions and increased exposure to international football.
The upcoming first leg against Rwanda is expected to be competitive, with both teams aiming to secure an early advantage in the qualification tie. Zambia’s preparation has emphasized cohesion, quick transitions, and defensive stability, all of which will be crucial in away conditions. The players will also look to capitalize on set-piece opportunities and maintain composure in key moments of the match. For many in the squad, this fixture represents an important step in their development pathway toward senior national team football. The technical team has highlighted the importance of staying focused across both legs of the qualification round to avoid costly mistakes.
As the countdown to April 17 continues, Zambia Under-17 Women’s National Team will intensify their preparations while fine-tuning match strategies. The focus remains firmly on execution and discipline as they aim to deliver a strong performance away from home in Kigali. The match also presents an opportunity to demonstrate the progress of women’s football development in Zambia at youth level on the continental stage. With high spirits and a clear objective, the team is determined to make a strong statement in the opening leg of their World Cup qualification journey.