Zambia’s Copper Queens are entering a critical phase of preparations ahead of the Morocco 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations, but travel complications are creating uncertainty for several foreign-based players. Coach Nora Häuptle has named a provisional 38-member squad, yet some players may miss early training due to disruptions caused by the ongoing USA-Iran conflict, which has affected flights and airport operations globally. Among those facing uncertainty are Evarine Katongo from Ra’anan WFC in Israel, Ireene Lungu from Sichuan Jiangsu in China, Xiomara Mapepa from Altaraji Club in China, Hellen Chanda from Eastern Flames in Saudi Arabia, Ruth Mukoma from Shanghai WFC in China, and Rachael Kundananji from Bay FC in the USA. Häuptle remains optimistic that once the situation stabilizes, these players will join the final stage of preparations and contribute to the team’s readiness for major tournaments. The provisional squad also includes home-based players like Eunice Sakala and Chabwe Ngosa from Indeni Roses, while Mary Wilombe’s inclusion depends on her medical clearance.
The Copper Queens commenced training during the current FIFA Window, which runs from February 24 to March 7, as they balance dual objectives: preparing for the WAFCON and the upcoming FIFA Series Tournament in Brazil scheduled for April 11-18. Zambia has been drawn in Group C for the WAFCON alongside defending champions Nigeria, Malawi, and Egypt, making early preparations critical. The Confederation of African Football has set the tournament dates from March 17 to April 3 in Morocco. This edition of the WAFCON carries added significance as the top four teams will secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Häuptle’s strategy focuses on ensuring that both domestic and foreign-based players integrate seamlessly into the squad to achieve peak performance in these competitive fixtures.
The FIFA Series presents another vital test for the Copper Queens as they face Brazil, South Korea, and Canada in a biennial invitational tournament promoted by FIFA. This tournament allows national teams from different confederations to compete in international friendlies, offering crucial match experience and tactical development ahead of the WAFCON. Häuptle’s approach emphasizes building squad depth, fostering team cohesion, and enhancing tactical adaptability to navigate both tournaments successfully. Foreign-based players currently caught in travel complications are expected to join once security and logistical conditions improve, allowing the coach to maximize squad options for the high-profile competitions. This careful planning reflects the ambition of the Copper Queens to remain competitive at both continental and global levels.
Zambia’s 38-member provisional WAFCON squad features a mix of experienced internationals and promising talent across all positions. The goalkeeping department includes Mufunte Chishala, Catherine Musonda, Hazel Nali, and Eunice Sakala, providing depth and experience. The defense is anchored by Margaret Belemu, Margaret Gondwe, Agness Musesa, Rachael Nachula, Memory Nthala, Esther Siamfuko, Maluba Blessings, Saliya Mwanza, Judith Soko, Martha Tembo, Lushomo Mweemba, and Xiomara Mapepa, covering both domestic and international talent. Midfield options include Susan Banda, Rhodah Chileshe, Avell Chitundu, Sampa Chisanga, Natasha Witika, Grace Chanda, Misozi Zulu, Hellen Chanda, Evarine Katongo, and Mary Wilombe. The attack is spearheaded by stars like Barbra Banda, Regina Chanda, Maweta Chilenga, Agness Phiri, Mercy Chipasula, Kabanghe Mupopo, Eneless Phiri, Prisca Chilufya, Ruth Mukoma, Rachael Kundananji, Samiah Phiri, and Chabwe Ngosa. Häuptle’s selection blends international exposure with domestic familiarity to create a balanced squad capable of competing at the highest levels.
The Copper Queens’ preparations for the Morocco 2026 WAFCON and the FIFA Series are marked by both opportunity and challenge. Travel disruptions have temporarily affected several key foreign-based players, but Häuptle remains confident that the squad will assemble fully in time for the final phase of training. Strategic planning, squad depth, and careful integration of talent are central to Zambia’s ambitions in these tournaments. Success in WAFCON will not only advance Zambia toward the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup but also strengthen the profile of women’s football nationally. As the FIFA Window and tournaments approach, the Copper Queens aim to combine experience, skill, and resilience to deliver competitive performances on the continental and global stages.