Zambia’s Copper Queens have intensified their preparations for their maiden appearance at the World Cup. A tasty affair against fellow World Cup-bound Ireland ended in a 3-2 defeat.
However, Bolanews lists the five talking points about that match as Zambia lost yet another friendly leading up to the global showpiece.
1.) Bruce Mwape running out of ideas about his defense
It’s evident that Zambia’s defence has been a major cause of concern, and Bruce Mwape seems to be struggling to find a solution. In the game against Ireland, the Copper Queens conceded three goals after breaking the deadlock first. The introduction of a new technical director, Lisa Cole, from the USA, should start paying dividends, but Zambia seems to be racing against time.
RELATED ARTICLE: How Zambia lost 3-2 to Ireland in Pre-World Cup match
A victory last night was going to be a confidence booster for the debutants. Cole brings a plethora of experience to a very young side that still has a long way to go before it can be deemed ready for high-level football. Prior to her appointment, the Copper Queens suffered massive defeats against South Korea, conceding ten goals in two back-to-back friendlies in April.
2.) Zambia’s attack still lack cohesion
One of the deadly attacks on the African continent has resulted in a timid performance in the last four friendlies. Last night, performers such as Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji rose to the occasion, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win.
If the Copper Queens are unable to outscore their opponents, they must prevent them from scoring but that has not been the case. Victories will be critical in raising morale in the camp. Losses will almost certainly help them identify their flaws, but the girls must be in top form.
3.) A Chance To Further Assess The Camp
Zambia has not yet picked their final squad and reports suggest a decision will be made at the end of all the friendlies prior to the World Cup. Bruce Mwape knows the decision will not be easy to make but is inevitable. Fans will hope the technical bench chooses the best possible squad.
4.) New Stars Can Be Made
Elite Ladies’ Comfort Selemani scored the only goal when Zambia defeated Tanzania 1-0 in their last home game at a packed Woodlands stadium. It was a glimmer of hope that more stars can be made. At the Olympics, Barbra Banda was a stand-out performer scoring back-to-back hat-tricks to introduce herself on the international stage. Bruce Mwape should try out some of the new girls who are eager to fight for the country.
5.) Time to Gain Momentum
Zambia is not only preparing for the World Cup, but it also has a chance to gain momentum through friendlies. Excellent performances will be critical in ensuring Zambia’s development in the run-up to the global showpiece. Positive results would benefit the WAFCON bronze medalists, who are no strangers to making history. They may have lost their fifth pre-World Cup match to Ireland, but there is still plenty of room for improvement.
What’s next for the Copper Queens?
The Copper Queens got off to a flying start, but their porous defense led to a miserable day at work. On July 7, they will conclude their European camp with a match against two-time world champions Germany in Furth.
Zambia will be making their debut at the World Cup. They are in Group C alongside Spain, Japan, and Costa Rica.
The Copper Queens will kick off their campaign on the 22nd of July against Japan.
