On Thursday, Copper Queens boss Nora Häuptle revealed the 24-member selection set to represent Zambia at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji will finally be gracing the continental showpiece after being controversially omitted from the 2022 edition.
Alongside 2022 taliswoman Grace Chanda, Banda and Kundananji will be instrumental for the Copper Queens in their quest for a maiden WAFCON title.
But while the spotlight will naturally fall on these heavyweights, there is a handful of lesser-known players who could turn the tide in Morocco. BolaNews jots down a list of five underrated Copper Queens stars to keep tabs on next month.
Pauline Zulu (Zanaco Ladies FC, Zambia)
Since supplanting Agness Musesa in the Copper Queens’ defence, Pauline Zulu has been colossal at the back. Given her pace and ability to quickly react to danger, she has proven to be a more reliable partner for ball-playing defender Lushomo Mweemba.
Despite conceding a harsh red card at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the centre-back dropped some top-notch performances, standing out in a leaky defence. While Zambia’s backline could still be their biggest vulnerability on the big stage, Zulu has the quality to be a commanding presence if she takes her A-game to Morocco.
Fridah Mukoma (Beijing Jingtan, China)
Mukoma has been making a name for herself in China scoring six goals and providing an assist in seven matches for Beijing Jingtan. In spite of this feat, she has been starved of minutes at senior national team level, particularly under Nora Häuptle.
The 18 year old demonstrated how unplayable she can be for the Copper Queens at the 2024 COSAFA Women’s Championship, netting a tournament-high four goals. Boasting unwavering strength, blistering speed and deadly finishing, the Kansas City Current loanee is often dubbed the next Barbra Banda.
Natasha Nanyangwe (Green Buffaloes Women, Zambia)
When in top gear, the midfield partnership of Natasha Nanyangwe and Evarine Katongo is a joy to watch. Their chemistry in the middle of the park at Green Buffaloes Women’s FC often carries over to the national team.
Swiss tactician Nora Hauptle, who continues to integrate a possession-based approach in the Copper Queens’ squad, will be counting on players like Nanyangwe.
Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa PBE Queens, Zambia)
If you are fascinated by Lamine Yamal’s early rise on the international stage in Spain, then Mercy Chipasula will definitely catch your attention.
At just 17, Chipasula is the youngest player in the Copper Queens squad for the 2024 WAFCON. Despite her age, she plays with remarkable confidence in attack, often making the difference when introduced from the bench.
With veterans like Racheal Nachula and Kabange Mupopo approaching the twilight of their careers, this tournament could be the perfect stage for Chipasula to announce herself to the continent.
Mapalo Maluba (Nchanga Rangers Queens, Zambia)
Zambia has long lacked a dependable defensive midfielder to shield the backline and initiate play from deep and Mapalo Maluba could be the answer.
The youngster has shown promise in both midfield and defence, offering versatility that could prove crucial in a demanding tournament like the Women’s AFCON.
She was particularly impressive earlier this year, standing out in friendlies against Botswana and South Africa as a centre back.
Her ability to slot into multiple roles makes her a valuable asset for Copper Queens coach Nora Häuptle.
READ MORE: Copper Queens coach Nora Häuptle told to tighten tactical screws before WAFCON
