The Zambia Women National Team, the Copper Queens, has been drawn in Group C for the Morocco 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations. They will face defending champions Nigeria, Egypt, and regional rivals Malawi in the group stage. According to the draw conducted in Rabat, Zambia will be based in Casablanca and will play their matches at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium. The team will aim to build on their experience from the 2022 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia/New Zealand. The draw sets up a challenging group, but it also provides an opportunity for the Copper Queens to showcase their talent on a continental stage. Success in the tournament could strengthen Zambia’s position in African women’s football.
Group A of the tournament features hosts Morocco, Algeria, Senegal, and Kenya, while Group B includes South Africa, Cote d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Tanzania. Group D comprises Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, and Cape Verde, with matches scheduled to take place in Fes. The tournament will run from March 17 to April 3, 2026, and the four semifinalists will earn qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. This structure ensures a competitive environment across all groups, with each team targeting a place in the semifinals. The Moroccan venues for the tournament include Moulay Al Hassan Stadium and Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, and Complexe Sportif de Fes in Fes.
For the Copper Queens, the Morocco 2026 WAFCON offers a chance to compete against Africa’s strongest teams and prepare for global competitions. With Nigeria as defending champions, Zambia will need strategic planning and strong team performance to advance. Matches in Casablanca will provide the team with excellent facilities and support as they pursue their campaign. The team’s preparation will focus on tactical discipline, fitness, and building cohesion among players. Success in the tournament could enhance the profile of women’s football in Zambia and inspire the next generation of players. Participation also strengthens Zambia’s commitment to developing competitive women’s football on the continent.
