FAZ President Celebrates Copper Princesses’ Qualification For FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup
FAZ President Keith Mweemba has congratulated the Copper Princesses after they secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup, praising the team’s resilience and determination throughout the campaign.
The Zambia Under-17 Women’s National Team confirmed their place at the global tournament following a 1-1 draw against Ethiopia in the second-leg qualifier played in Addis Ababa on Sunday. The result ensured a 3-2 aggregate victory, booking Zambia a spot at the World Cup for the third consecutive edition.
Mweemba described the achievement as a proud moment for Zambian football, commending the players, technical staff, and supporters for their collective effort in another successful qualification journey. He also emphasized that the consistency of the youth teams reflects the growing strength of women’s football development in the country.
The Copper Princesses continue to establish themselves as a rising force on the continent, with their latest qualification adding another milestone to their growing international experience.
Mweemba says the team showed great character, discipline and determination to overcome a difficult challenge away from home.
“The girls worked hard for this qualification. They stayed together, followed the game plan and showed they can handle pressure. They deserve all the praise for what they have achieved,” Mweemba said.
He commended the players for remaining focused under pressure and delivering when it mattered most for the nation.
The FAZ President saluted head coach Carol Kanyemba, her technical bench and the entire support staff for the role they played in guiding the team to this achievement.
He said their commitment and hard work had continued to produce positive results for women’s football in Zambia.
“On behalf my executive committee and the football family, I also want to thank Coach Carol Kanyemba and her technical bench. They have done their part and this qualification belongs to everyone who worked with the team,” Mweemba said.
Mweemba said the qualification was a special moment for Zambian football as it came on the day the country laid to rest former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape.
He said the victory was a fitting honour to a coach who made an important contribution to the growth of women’s football and left a lasting mark on the national teams.
Mweemba said the FAZ remained committed to giving the Copper Princesses adequate preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup.
He said the team would be provided with the necessary support, exposure and preparations needed to compete strongly on the global stage.
“This achievement is a sign of the progress we are making in women’s football. However, we want to go beyond participation. Our target is to surpass the Round of 32 record achieved at previous tournament and compete for a better finish.” Mweemba said.
