The squad, accompanied by the Algerian national team on a chartered flight from Algiers, will use Morocco as their base following a productive training camp that included friendlies against Algeria (a 1-1 draw and a narrow 1-0 defeat).
Tough Group C Assignment
Zambia have been drawn in Group C alongside powerhouses Nigeria (11-time champions), hosts-adjacent Egypt, and regional rivals Malawi. Head coach Nora Häuptle will be looking to guide the team beyond the group stage and improve on past performances.
Key Fixtures (All times WAT):
- Matchday 1: Zambia vs Egypt – Tuesday, 28 July 2026, 18:00
- Matchday 2: Zambia vs Nigeria – Saturday, 1 August 2026, 18:00
- Matchday 3: Zambia vs Malawi – Wednesday, 5 August 2026, 20:00
Squad Strength and Leadership
Häuptle has named a 26-player squad blending experienced campaigners with emerging talent. Star forward Barbra Banda leads the side as captain, supported by prolific attackers like Rachael Kundananji and Prisca Chilufya.
Full Squad:
Goalkeepers: Chishala Mfunte (Green Buffaloes), Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows), Hazel Nali (Zesco Ndola Girls)
Defenders: Margaret Belemu (Red Arrows), Margaret Gondwe (Green Buffaloes), Rachael Nachula (Green Buffaloes), Blessing Maluba (Nchanga Queens), Siomala Mapepa (Altaraji Club), Saliya Mwanza, Lushomo Mweemba (Hakkarigucu Spor), Martha Tembo (Hakkarigucu Spor)
Midfielders: Susan Banda (Red Arrows), Grace Chanda (Queretaro), Hellen Chanda (Eastern Flames), Rhodah Chileshe (Indeni), Avell Chitundu (Zesco Ndola Girls), Evarine Katongo (Ra'anana Women's FC), Ireen Lungu (Sichuan)
Strikers: Barbra Banda (C) (Orlando Pride), Prisca Chilufya (Angel City), Mercy Chipasula (Zesco Ndola Girls), Eneless Phiri (Zesco Ndola Girls), Rachael Kundananji (Bay FC), Fridah Mukoma (Beijing Jingstan), Kabange Mupopo (Liaoning Shenbei Hefeng), Ochumba Oseke Lubanji (Quanzhou Naan)
The squad features a strong overseas contingent, including players from the USA’s NWSL, Europe, and Asia, adding valuable experience and quality.
Expectations and Preparation
Zambia will be aiming to make a strong impression in what is expected to be a highly competitive tournament. The Copper Queens have grown significantly in recent years, and Häuptle’s leadership has instilled greater tactical discipline and attacking threat.
With the tournament fast approaching, focus now shifts to fine-tuning tactics and ensuring full fitness in the Moroccan heat. Fans back home will be hoping for a memorable campaign that showcases Zambian women’s football on the continental stage.
The 2026 WAFCON promises exciting football, and Zambia will be determined to write another proud chapter in their history.