Mexico-based forward Prisca Chilufya was dropped from the squad that competed at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup where Zambia bowed out in the Group Stages with three points after a win over Costa Rica and two defeats against Japan and Spain.
The striker, who now turns out for Mexican Liga MX Femenil side FC Juárez, reveals in an exclusive interview with BolaNews that she was disappointed not to make the final squad for the global showpiece.
“My journey with the national team has been a disappointing one,” she admitted. “But I believe the players that were picked might have worked harder than I did.”
Chilufya said that she was in a state of dilemma before deciding to join the Mexican top-flight side because of the prospects of playing at the Women’s World Cup.
“I had to decide between signing the contract and waiting after the World Cup. We still had two weeks in camp, but the club could not wait for that long.
“I’m happy I signed because if I had not, imagine what would have happened if I had entirely hoped to play at the World Cup? Maybe there wouldn’t have been another offer. I was hurt not to make the final squad because my desire is to play for the country.”
‘Mexico move was a relief’ – Chilufya
The 24-year-old said that joining FC Juárez has provided some sort of relief after missing the World Cup.
“Despite missing out on the final squad, I received a warm welcome at my club. I have accepted my situation regarding the national team, and I’m now focusing on my club career. I’m open to call-ups if I’m considered for future national team assignments,” she said.
Chilufya is currently in impressive form but has missed out on the Copper Queens squad that is in Morocco for international friendlies with the Atlas Lionesses.
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The former Red Arrows striker has scored four goals in eight appearances for FC Juarez this season. She notes that playing in the Mexican League is tough due to its physical nature.
“There is a lot of physical contact in the league… Otherwise, I have settled and adapted well to the nature of the league,” Chilufya said.
“My target this season is to establish myself in Mexican football…. Then next season I will be aiming to break some records by scoring more goals.”
Chilufya has only played eight times for Zambia and has only scored once against Lesotho in the 2020 COSAFA tournament, but the enterprising attacker has scored 50 goals in Europe in the last two years while at Tomiris and Bilk Kazgurt, including four in the UEFA Champions League.
