The Zambian women’s national football team is heading to the Morocco 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations with one clear goal: to win their first-ever continental title.
Known as the Copper Queens, the team wants to prove they belong among Africa’s absolute best.
Zambia is ranked 64th in the world and 4th in Africa. Because of their high ranking, they entered the qualifiers in the second round and easily defeated Namibia.
They won 7-2 on aggregate, thanks to star forward Racheal Kundananji, who scored a brilliant hat-trick in the first leg and added another goal in the second.
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The team is now guided by head coach Nore Hauptle, who took charge in 2025. The Swiss coach holds a UEFA Pro Licence and a Master’s degree in Sports Science.
With experience coaching in Switzerland, Germany and Ghana, Hauptle has brought fresh tactical structure to a squad already famous for its fierce attacking talent.
Zambia boasts one of the most feared attacking units on the continent, led by two world-class forwards :
Barbra Banda: The 25-year-old Orlando Pride striker is back after recovering from a hip injury. Powerful, fast and clinical, Banda is one of the biggest names in women’s football.
Racheal Kundananji: Fresh off a stellar qualifying campaign where she was one of the only two players to score a hat trick, she will be a constant threat to opposing defences.
Zambia has risen fast in African football. They made history in 2022 by finishing third after beating Nigeria for the bronze medal. Although the 2024 campaign ended in the quarter-final against Nigeria, the team has continued to grow.
To prepare for Morocco 2026, the Copper Queens have played tough international matches against powerhouse teams like Brazil, Canada and South Korea, even earning a strong draw against South Korea.
With elite goalscorers, fresh leadership and big tournament experience, Zambia is ready to take the next step and fight for the ultimate prize in African women’s football.
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