Orlando Pride striker Barbra Banda and Bay FC forward Racheal Kundananji have officially joined the Copper Queens camp ahead of their highly anticipated FIFA international friendly matches against Botswana and South Africa. The two star forwards touched down in Lusaka after fulfilling their club commitments in the United States’ National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), bolstering coach Nora Häuptle’s squad as preparations intensify.
Banda arrived alongside her Orlando Pride teammates Grace Chanda and Prisca Chilufya, adding firepower and experience to the Zambian women’s national team. The trio’s arrival brings the total number of players in camp to 22, with only one player — Racheal Nachula of Hapoel Jerusalem in Israel — yet to report.
Kundananji, who recently joined the newly formed Bay FC in the NWSL and continues to make waves with her performances, landed at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport on Sunday at 14:35hrs. Her arrival further solidifies Zambia’s attacking options as they prepare for the two key friendlies.
The friendly matches form a crucial part of the Copper Queens’ preparations for upcoming competitive fixtures, including the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers and potential Olympic Games appearances. Coach Nora Häuptle is expected to use these matches not only to build cohesion among her players but also to test tactical combinations and squad depth.
Zambia will first face Botswana before taking on regional rivals South Africa, who are reigning WAFCON champions. The high-profile clashes are set to offer a tough but valuable challenge for the Copper Queens, who are eager to continue their rise on the international stage.
With the arrival of their top players, including Banda and Kundananji — two of Africa’s most prolific forwards — the Copper Queens will be aiming to make a strong statement in both fixtures. Banda’s leadership and goal-scoring instinct, coupled with Kundananji’s explosive pace and technical ability, are expected to be central to Zambia’s attacking strategy.
The full 24-member squad, once completed with Nachula’s arrival, is expected to be a strong mix of experienced internationals and promising local talent. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how coach Häuptle will shape her final line-up and what tactical adjustments will be made as Zambia builds toward its long-term international goals.
As the countdown to the friendlies begins, the spotlight is firmly on the Copper Queens — a team on the rise, backed by a growing roster of stars competing at the highest levels of women’s football.