The Zambia Under-17 Women’s National Team has stepped up preparations ahead of one of its most important matches of the year as the Copper Princesses continue their journey toward qualification for the Morocco 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. On Thursday, the squad held an intensive training session at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, where they fine-tuned their tactics and sharpened their match readiness before Saturday’s highly anticipated encounter against Ethiopia. The first leg of the third and final qualifying round presents a major opportunity for Zambia to move within touching distance of another appearance on the global stage. With home advantage on their side, the young players are determined to deliver a strong performance in front of their supporters. Every training session has become increasingly important as the team prepares to face a competitive Ethiopian side with World Cup qualification at stake.
Saturday’s fixture at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium carries enormous significance for both teams, as it represents the first leg of the final hurdle on the road to the Morocco 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. A positive result at home would give Zambia valuable momentum heading into the return leg while increasing their chances of booking a place at one of the biggest tournaments in youth women’s football. The players understand the importance of making the most of their home advantage by producing a disciplined and confident performance. Playing in familiar surroundings is expected to boost the team’s confidence, but the coaching staff remains focused on ensuring the players maintain concentration throughout the match. Every goal, defensive action and tactical decision could prove decisive over the two-legged qualifier.
Head coach Carol Kanyemba has continued to lead the team’s preparations with careful attention to every aspect of the game. During Thursday’s training session, she and her technical bench guided the players through a series of drills designed to improve tactical awareness, movement, ball control and finishing. The coaching staff also emphasized teamwork, communication and defensive organization, all of which will be essential against a determined Ethiopian side. As the final qualifying round approaches, every player is competing to demonstrate readiness for selection in the starting lineup. The intensity of training reflects the high expectations surrounding the team and the importance of securing a positive result.
Physical conditioning has also formed a key part of Zambia’s preparations as the squad aims to maintain high energy levels throughout the ninety minutes. The technical team has balanced tactical work with fitness exercises to ensure the players are capable of maintaining their performance under match conditions. Recovery sessions, hydration and injury prevention have become equally important as the coaching staff seeks to keep the entire squad available for selection. Preparing physically is just as critical as developing technical skills, particularly in high-pressure international fixtures where endurance often influences the outcome. The players have responded positively to the demanding training schedule, showing commitment and determination during every session.
Mental preparation is another area receiving significant attention ahead of the decisive qualifier. International football often places young athletes under considerable pressure, especially when qualification for a World Cup is on the line. The coaching staff has worked to build confidence within the squad while encouraging players to remain calm and focused regardless of the occasion. Maintaining composure in key moments can make the difference between victory and disappointment. The players understand that discipline, patience and belief will be essential qualities when facing Ethiopia in such an important contest.
The Zambia Football Association has continued to showcase the team’s preparations through coverage provided by the FAZ Media Team. Thursday’s training session was captured in detail, giving supporters a glimpse into the work taking place behind the scenes before the crucial qualifier. The images and updates highlight the commitment shown by both the players and coaching staff as they prepare for one of the biggest matches of their campaign. Such coverage also strengthens the connection between the national team and football fans across Zambia, who eagerly follow the progress of the country’s young talents. Public support is expected to play an important role as the team takes to the field in Ndola.
The Copper Princesses have built a growing reputation in recent years as one of Africa’s promising youth teams. Zambia’s investment in women’s football has contributed to the steady development of talented young players capable of competing at continental and international levels. Participation in major tournaments has inspired more girls to pursue football while strengthening the country’s youth development structures. The Under-17 national team represents the next generation of players who could eventually progress to the senior Copper Queens. Every qualifying campaign therefore serves not only as a chance to reach the World Cup but also as an opportunity to develop future stars of Zambian football.
Ethiopia will undoubtedly arrive in Ndola determined to secure a positive result of their own, making the contest highly competitive from the opening whistle. Both teams have progressed through the qualifying rounds by demonstrating quality, resilience and determination. Zambia will need to remain organized defensively while taking advantage of scoring opportunities whenever they arise. A strong first-leg performance could provide a valuable advantage before the decisive return fixture. The players are aware that maintaining focus for the full match will be essential against a capable opponent.
Excitement continues to build as kickoff approaches, with supporters hoping to see the Copper Princesses take another significant step toward qualifying for the Morocco 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The team’s thorough preparations, guided by head coach Carol Kanyemba and her technical staff, demonstrate their determination to compete at the highest level. Training sessions at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium have focused on ensuring every player is physically, tactically and mentally prepared for the challenge ahead. A positive result against Ethiopia would bring Zambia closer to another historic appearance on the world stage while rewarding the hard work invested throughout the qualification campaign. Saturday’s match promises to be a defining moment for the young Copper Princesses as they pursue their dream of representing Zambia at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.