Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda says Zambia’s primary objective at the upcoming 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco is to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Zambia heads into the continental showpiece with high expectations after recent impressive performances on the African stage. The Copper Queens are drawn in Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, Egypt, and regional rivals Malawi.
The tournament will also serve as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Speaking ahead of the Four Nations Tournament in Ndola, Banda said the team is focused on making a strong impression at WAFCON and earning a place at the global tournament.
“We know it’s going to be hard. This is why we’re trying everything possible to have good preparations because we know and we see how it feels to go to the World Cup, and that’s our aim,” Banda said.
“For the first stages, we need to do well so that we find ourselves playing the final stages where we can qualify for the World Cup, which we are aiming for as a team. We still want to go back to the World Cup.”
Its not about me but the team- Banda
The Orlando Pride striker has joined the national team camp ahead of the Four Nations Tournament that will feature Zambia, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho.
Hosts Zambia will face Kenya in the opening match on June 6, while Zimbabwe will take on Lesotho in the second semifinal. The winners will advance to the final.
Banda described the tournament as an important part of the team’s preparations for Morocco and expects stiff competition from all participating nations.
“It feels good to be among the team. I would like to thank God for this opportunity because it’s everyone’s dream to play for the national team and to present the badge. Honestly, we’re expecting good games during this Four Nations Tournament because this time around there are no pushover teams,” Banda said.
Banda also noted that football is about teamwork, adding, “It’s not about Barbra Banda or Ireen Lungu or any individual player. It’s about the whole team together with the technical bench. We are united and sticking to our principles as a team.”
Banda is confident Zambia has the quality and determination to compete against Africa’s best teams and challenge for major honours.
“We are looking forward to going there and showcasing our talent, doing our level best so that we qualify for the World Cup and make sure that we compete for the WAFCON trophy,” Banda said.
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