Copper Queens Camp Opens in Lusaka as Häuptle Names 29-Player Provisional Squad
Zambia’s WAFCON-bound Copper Queens have officially commenced preparations in Lusaka, with head coach Nora Häuptle calling up a 29-player provisional squad featuring several key returns and notable inclusions.
Skipper Barbra Banda makes her long-awaited return to the national team setup following an injury layoff, bolstering Zambia’s attacking options ahead of a busy period.
Also back in the fold is Malta-based midfielder Misozi Zulu, who reclaims her spot after missing the previous WAFCON edition. Zulu was part of the 2022 squad that helped secure Zambia’s historic debut FIFA World Cup appearance.
Häuptle has maintained continuity by retaining the entire 23-member COSAFA contingent while adding six foreign-based reinforcements.
However, some international players remain stranded due to the escalating conflict between the USA and Iran, with their arrival delayed until travel becomes safe.
The Copper Queens face a demanding schedule with twin objectives: for the WAFCON and participation in the FIFA Series Tournament in Brazil (April 11-18).
At the WAFCON, Zambia finds itself in Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, Malawi, and Egypt. The continental showpiece runs from March 17 to April 3 in Morocco, with added significance this year—the top four finishers will secure tickets to the Brazil 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Brazil promises tough test for Zambia, who will face hosts Brazil, South Korea, and Canada in the FIFA Seriesa biennial invitational tournament featuring cross-confederation friendlies.
PROVISIONAL SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Mufunte Chishala (Green Buffaloes), Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows), Hazel Nali (Zesco Ndola Girls)
Defenders:
Magaret Belemu (Red Arrows), Margaret Gondwe, Agness Musesa, Rachael Nachula, Memory Nthala, Esther Siamfuko (all Green Buffaloes), Maluba Blessings (Nchanga Queens), Saliya Mwanza (Elite Ladies), Judith Soko (Zesco Ndola Girls), Martha Tembo, Lushomo Mweemba (Hakkarigücü-Turkey)
Midfielders:
Susan Banda (Cekmekoy BilgiDoga Spor-Turkey), Rhodah Chileshe (Indeni Roses), Avell Chitundu (Zesco Ndola Girls), Sampa Chisanga, Natasha Witika (Konkola Blades), Grace Chanda (Club Querétaro-Mexico), Misozi Zulu (Hibernians-Malta)
Strikers:
Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride-USA), Regina Chanda (Zanaco Ladies), Maweta Chilenga, Agness Phiri (both Green Buffaloes), Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Police), Kabanghe Mupopo (Henan WFC-China), Eneless Phiri (Zesco Ndola Girls), Prisca Chilufya (Angel City FC-USA)
Coach Häuptle is already on the ground in Lusaka, with some foreign-based players beginning to arrive as preparations intensify.
