Zambia’s star forward Racheal Kundananji once again stole the spotlight at the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), earning the TotalEnergies Woman of the Match award as her early free-kick proved decisive in a 1–0 victory over DR Congo in Mohammedia.
Kundananji’s sensational strike in the 9th minute, curling a low free-kick past Congolese keeper Ruth Khonde, set the tone and propelled the Copper Queens into the quarter-finals.
This marks her second consecutive Woman of the Match honor, making her the first player in this tournament to receive the award twice . Combined with her game-winning goal, Kundananji delivered a performance defined by precision, grit, and championship game temperament.
Despite DR Congo being reduced to ten players following a red card in the 69th minute, Zambia maintained control and saw out the win with composure. The 1–0 triumph secured their place in the knockout stages alongside hosts Morocco.
Match Highlights
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Scoreline: Zambia 1–0 DR Congo
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Goal: Racheal Kundananji, 9′ (free-kick)
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Carded: DR Congo reduced to 10 in 69′ after VAR-upgraded red card
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Player of the Match: Racheal Kundananji — second straight award
Why It Matters
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Kundananji’s brilliance underlines her status as one of Africa’s elite, extending her impact with another Player of the Match performance .
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Zambia’s progression to the quarter-finals confirms their consistency and competitive edge in the tournament .
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As a dead-ball specialist, Kundananji’s goal reflects Zambia’s efficient set-piece execution and tactical maturity.
What’s Next
Having secured at least second place in Group A, Zambia now look ahead to the quarter-finals with momentum and confidence. Their form—and Kundananji’s spark—could make them one of the tournament’s most dangerous contenders.
Racheal Kundananji’s match-winning brilliance wasn’t just effective; it was inspirational—earning her back-to-back honors and cementing her status as a true game-changer.
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