Green Buffaloes Women’s FC lifted the 2025 Carlin’s Black Label Samuel Zoom Dhlovu Charity Shield with a thrilling 3–2 victory over reigning champions Zesco Ndola Girls at Levy Mwanawansa Stadium on Sunday.

Evarine Susan Katongo put Buffaloes ahead in the 6th minute before Hellen Chanda doubled the lead six minutes later. Zesco hit back quickly through Penelope Mulubwa and equalized just before halftime via Enelesi Phiri’s superb finish.

In the second half, Chanda’s header sealed her brace and Buffaloes’ win.

Zesco now turn their attention to the COSAFA | CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers (August 22–31), where they face Group A rivals Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), Ntopwa FC (Malawi), and Beauties FC (Namibia). Only the group winner advances to the continental finals.

Despite the defeat, Zesco’s coach William Zulu is unfazed ahead of the crucial qualifiers.

“Based on today’s game, I think we are ready, I would say we are 80% to 90% ready,” he said. “We have two weeks to go so I think we will be fully prepared.”