The Copper Queens put up a spirited performance against two-time World Champions Germany to record their first win on their European tour ahead of their debut at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
After losing 3-2 to Ireland and drawing 3-3 to Switzerland, the Copper Queens ran riot to defeat Germany 2-3 on Friday, their biggest win ever against top-ranked.
Following a 0-0 first half that saw Germany enjoy much of the ball possession, the Copper Queens came all guns blazing.
Barbra Banda put Zambia ahead three minutes into the second half after being set up by Madrid CFF attacker Racheal Kundananji.
No sooner had Barbra scored than Kundananji pounced on a loose ball off an Ochumba Oseke Lubanji deflected shot to score the second goal for the Zambians in the 54th minute.
Kundananji’s goal was her second in her previous two outings and her fourth goal involvement, having scored and assisted against Switzerland and Germany.
The Germans tried to come back into the game, hitting the woodwork twice but to no avail as Zambian goalkeeper, Catherin Musonda denied the home side on several occasions making six crucial saves to keep Zambia’s lead.
However, with ten minutes added time, the Germans finally found the back of the net through Lea Schuller before Alexandra Popp scored the equalizer.
When it appeared that the two teams were down to a draw, Zambia went on a counterattack, with Banda scoring from outside the 18-yard box, fully beating Merle Frohms.
The Copper Queens will now head to Australia for their World Cup opener against Japan on 22nd July 2023.
They are in Group C with Spain, Costa Rica and Japan.
