Copper Queens get Presidential salute after sealing WAfCON qualification

PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has saluted the Copper Queens following their emphatic 3-0 victory over Namibia that sealed their qualification to the Morocco 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAfCON).

The President took to his official Facebook page to congratulate the Zambia Women’s National Team for their outstanding performance, which saw them advance 7-2 on aggregate over two legs.

“Congratulations to the Zambia Women National Team for qualifying for the Morocco 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations after beating Namibia 3-0 on the day and 7-2 on aggregate. Congratulations to FAZ, technical bench, players and fans for this victory,” wrote President Hichilema.

It took just 21 minutes for Zambia to open the floodgates when lethal striker Racheal Kundananji pounced on a perfect corner delivery from Grace Chanda, slotting home the opener to give the home side an early lead.

Just 11 minutes later, the hosts doubled their advantage through a thunderbolt from Eneless Phiri, who smashed in a sensational strike after a delightful assist from Kundananji.

In the second half, the Queens continued to dominate proceedings, with Prisca Chilufya, Grace Chanda and Martha Tembo putting up strong performances before being replaced by the experienced trio of Kabange Mupopo, Racheal Nachula and Natasha Nanyangwe in the 58th minute.

The fresh legs kept the pressure high, and Zambia’s control of the game never faded.

Eneless Phiri later received a standing ovation from the fans when she made way for Penelope Mulubwa in the 76th minute, a moment that summed up Zambia’s dominance on the day.

When the referee finally blew the whistle after three minutes of added time, it was all joy and jubilation in Ndola.

With the win, the Copper Queens secured their place at the 2026 WAfCON in Morocco, further solidifying their growing reputation as one of Africa’s top women’s football powerhouses.