Regarded by many as one of Green Eagles Women’s Football Club’s most versatile players, Natasha Nkaka is undoubtedly a rare gem. She joined the Zambia National Service-sponsored side from Choma Warriors in the summer of 2024 for an undisclosed fee and remains one of the club’s most significant acquisitions.
Zambia’s women’s football has continued to rise, largely driven by the emergence of world-class talents such as Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji.
While young players such the 18-year-old have big shoes to fill, having established stars to guide them provides a valuable pathway to success.
On Tuesday, Nkaka made her dream debut for the Copper Queens in a 4-1 win over Uganda in the 2028 Olympic qualifiers and received accolades after coming on for Martha Tembo in the 68th minute.
Reflecting on her impressive debut, Nkaka described the camp atmosphere as welcoming.
“The reception was overwhelming; the senior players did their best to make us young players feel comfortable.”
The teenager also expressed her excitement at getting the opportunity to represent the senior national team, pledging to continue working hard to earn further selections.
“I was very much excited because I really wanted to be a part of the senior national team, and that was an opportunity to show off my talent, I will continue working hard so that I can be continuously selected to the senior national team.”
Nkaka, Haalubono conversation
Nkaka also recalled the conversation she had with head coach Charles Haalubono before being introduced onto the pitch, revealing how his words boosted her confidence.
“He told me I can do it and that he believes in me, he asked that I should go out there and showcase my talent.”
The Copper Queens went into the second leg against Uganda determined to overturn their first-leg deficit, and Nkaka highlighted the team’s belief and collective effort as key factors behind their response.
“After losing away from home, we wanted to turn things around, and we knew we could do it through teamwork; the confidence and morale were very high.”
Despite Zambia’s emphatic victory, Nkaka insists the team remains focused on the bigger objective of securing qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
“The job is not finished yet, we would like to go ahead and qualify for the Olympics for a third consecutive time.”
Nkaka has steadily progressed through Zambia’s youth national teams, including being part of the Under-17 side that participated in the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Since joining Green Eagles from Choma Warriors, she has established herself as a versatile player capable of delivering impressive performances in multiple positions. The two-footed teenager is also known for her ability to threaten opponents from set pieces.
Her journey through the national team ranks has been gradual, but earning her first senior cap marks a significant milestone in her young career.
