Bruce Mwape’s lasses will face the Black Queens this Friday at the Accra Sports Stadium in the 2024 Paris Olympics, third-round qualifiers, with the return leg set for Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola next Tuesday.
Speaking before departure for Accra, Lungu said the team is ready for the much-anticipated encounter, stating that the squad is in good shape as a result of the ongoing Women’s Super League in Zambia.
“Everyone is ready; we have been pushing ourselves. The league has helped us a lot; I think everyone is in good shape,” Lungu said.
The 26-year-old midfielder, who featured at the 2020 Olympics [played in 2021] with the Copper Queens, notes that it will be important to start the two-legged battle on a winning note in Accra.
“The first game in Ghana is very important. If we win in Ghana, then we are good to go. Our aim is to win the game in Ghana.
“Pressure is there; I think the only pressure we have is to carry the maximum points [a win]. It is very important that we qualify for the Olympics because I have played at the Games before.”
Lungu on facing experienced Ghana
Mwape added six Copper Queens players who have not been part of the setup in a long while, including former captain Kabange Mupopo, Green Eagles goalkeeper Loveness Tonge, defenders Natasha Kapombo, Martha Banda, Tabo Miselo, and ZESCO Ndola Girls midfielder Marjory Mulenga.
Lungu said the new and old members of the squad have blended in well.
“We have welcomed them very well, as there is no difference; they are ready,” she revealed.
She has noted that Ghana has an experienced side and will put up a good fight in their backyard.
“Ghana has experienced and old players; our team has small players; for others, it is their first time. All in all, we will work together so that we carry the day,” she concluded.
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