For the second consecutive time, the Zambian women’s team will be representing the African continent at the Summer Olympics. The Copper Queens will go head-to-head with Australia, Germany, and the United States in Group B.
While Zambia boasts of Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji, they will have to contend with the best players in the world.
Zambia is already familiar with Alexandar Popp, who scored in Germany’s 3-2 defeat to the Copper Queens last year.
Here are five opposition players that could hurt the Copper Queens if they are not kept at bay in France
Lea Schüller (Germany)
The Bayern Munich FC star is the most in-form player for Germany heading into the 2024 Paris Olympics. With six goals in six matches, Lea was the top scorer for Germany during the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euros qualifiers.
Sophia Smith (United States)
Smith is one of only three players to score 10 or more goals in the 2024 United States women’s league. The 23-year-old will be keen on scoring on her Olympic debut against Zambia on July 25th.
Klara Bühl (Germany)
Bühl could have a field day on the left wing against Zambia if they don’t get their right-back situation sorted. With Margret Belemu absent, 19-year-old Esther Siamfuko, will need to be at her best to curb the German attacker.
Mallory Pugh Swanson (United States)
She missed the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup due to injury; she hopes to make her mark at the Olympics.
Michelle Heyman (Australia)
Even without taliswoman Sam Kerr, Australia still poses a deadly attacking threat thanks to veteran Michelle Heyman. Heyman, 36 scored five goals in two games for Australia, beating Uzbekistan 13-0 to qualify for the Paris Olympics.
READ ALSO: USWNT coach admits Barbra Banda is the best striker in the World.
