Speaking to the team at Anew Hatfield Hotel in Pretoria—where they are currently camped—Mweemba emphasized that Tuesday’s match against Banyana Banyana is more than just a friendly; it’s a litmus test for Zambia’s ambitions on the continental stage.
“Let’s take this game against South Africa very, very seriously,” Mweemba said. “As an executive, we will do our part. Preparations begin now even as we look ahead to next month’s engagements.”
The FAZ boss was accompanied by the association’s Women’s National Representative, Col. Priscilla Katoba, as he rallied the players to show determination, discipline, and unity across all areas of the pitch.
“You should play without fear in any game. It doesn’t matter whether it’s Brazil or Germany—respect every opponent, but don’t call yourselves underdogs. There are no more underdogs in modern football,” Mweemba said.
He further urged every department of the team—from goalkeeping to the attacking line—to function cohesively. “It’s about coordination, transitions, and attitude. If we apply ourselves right, we can beat South Africa.”
Mweemba also reaffirmed the FAZ executive’s full backing for head coach Nora Häuptle, pledging that structural and technical challenges will be addressed at the federation’s upcoming executive committee meeting on June 7.
“Coach, the problem you shared with me—we shall support you. Decisions will be made, all departments must start functioning, and you have our full support,” he stated.
The Copper Queens face South Africa at 15:00 on Tuesday, June 3, in what will be their final match of a three-nation international series that also included a 1-1 draw with Botswana last Saturday. The friendly series serves as critical preparation for WAFCON 2025, set to be hosted in Morocco from July 5 to 26.
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