By FAZ Media
The Zambia Under-17 Women’s National Team departed for Addis Ababa this afternoon ahead of the crucial final round, second-leg FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia.
The Copper Princesses left via Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka at 15h45, carrying the hopes of the nation as they chase a third consecutive appearance at the global showpiece.
Zambia holds a narrow advantage from the first leg played in Lusaka and will be looking to seal qualification on Ethiopian soil.
Head Coach Carol Kanyemba said the team is fully focused and understands what is at stake in Addis Ababa.
“This is the final chance for the team to make it to the U-17 FIFA World Cup for the third consecutive time, and we are treating it with the seriousness it deserves,” Kanyemba said before departure.
“We have prepared well, the girls are motivated, and our target is clear. We are going there to finish the job and book our place.”
Zambia has represented Africa at the last two editions of the U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2022 and 2024, and Kanyemba believes maintaining that consistency will be key for the development of women’s football in the country.
Team captain Taonga Mubanga said the squad is confident going into the return leg.
“The mood in camp is good. We know it won’t be easy playing away, but we are ready and our aim is to score more goals,” Mubanga said.
“As a team we are optimistic that we will get a positive result and make Zambians proud. We want to go to the World Cup again.”
The Copper Princesses are expected to have one training session in Addis Ababa before the match later this week.
FAZ officials accompanying the team have urged fans back home to continue rallying behind the girls as they aim to fly the Zambian flag high once again on the world stage.
