The Zambia Under-17 Women National Team has intensified preparations for a decisive third-round FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Democratic Republic of Congo scheduled for May 24, 2026. The first leg will take place at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, where Zambia will aim to secure a strong home advantage. The fixture is a key step in the team’s qualification journey and carries significant weight for their global ambitions. Coach Carol Kanyemba and her technical staff have placed strong focus on discipline, structure, and match readiness as the squad enters the final phase of preparation. The team’s build-up reflects the growing investment in women’s football development in Zambia.
The squad is currently camped in Lusaka, Zambia before relocating to Ndola for the closing days of preparation ahead of the match. Training sessions have focused on tactical awareness, finishing, defensive organisation, and physical conditioning to ensure the players are fully prepared for high-pressure competition. Coach Kanyemba has worked closely with her technical team to refine squad cohesion and strengthen combinations across all departments of play. The camp has also emphasized mental preparation, with players being encouraged to stay focused and composed as they approach an important international fixture. The transition from Lusaka to Ndola is expected to help the team acclimatize to match conditions at the venue.
Zambia will host the Democratic Republic of Congo at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia on May 24 before travelling to Kinshasa for the return leg five days later. The home fixture is seen as a critical opportunity for the Copper Princesses to build momentum in the two-legged tie. The technical bench is expected to use the home advantage to push for a strong result before the away challenge. The match is also expected to draw attention as both teams continue their pursuit of FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualification. Preparation intensity has increased as the countdown to kickoff continues.
A key part of the team’s preparation included a practice match at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka, Zambia where the Copper Princesses faced Red Arrows Women Football Club. The match ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for the Zambia Women National Team, providing valuable insight into the squad’s readiness under competitive conditions. The game allowed the technical bench to assess player performance, tactical execution, and match fitness ahead of the qualifier. It also helped identify areas that require improvement, particularly in attacking efficiency and defensive transitions. The encounter was an important step in simulating real match pressure before the international fixture.
The preparations highlight the growing structure and competitiveness of youth women’s football in Zambia, with increased attention placed on international success. Coach Carol Kanyemba has emphasized discipline and teamwork as key pillars for success against DR Congo. The team’s training approach reflects a long-term vision aimed at building a strong pipeline for senior national team progression. Support from the Football Association of Zambia has also played a role in ensuring the squad receives adequate resources, facilities, and exposure. This development pathway continues to strengthen Zambia’s standing in women’s football across the African continent.
As the team moves closer to match day, focus remains on maintaining consistency, fitness, and tactical sharpness. The upcoming fixture in Ndola will test the squad’s ability to execute under pressure and manage a two-legged qualification battle effectively. With strong preparation in Lusaka and a final push expected in Ndola, the Copper Princesses are aiming to deliver a positive result at home before heading to Kinshasa. The outcome of this tie will play a significant role in shaping their World Cup qualification hopes. The journey continues with determination, structure, and growing confidence within the squad.