Copper Princesses thrash Benin to book World Cup slot 

The Zambia U17 Women’s National Team, The Copper Princesses thrashed Benin 4-1 away in Lome, Togo to seal a place at the 2025 U17 Women’s World Cup. 

A brace from skipper Mercy Chipasula and a goal each from Ruth Mukoma and Victoria Mbali gave the Carol Kanyemba coached outfit a comfortable win. 

Chipasula opened the scores in the 4th minute scoring directly from a corner kick and then doubled the lead in the 8th minute this time with a sublime free kick. 

Ismath Kotou reduced the deficit for the hosts in the 14th minute to make sure the tie was not over. 

Zambia dominated creating chances but Ruth Mukoma and Grace Phiri failed to convert. 

In the second half Zambia continued with more of the same creating chances. 

Coach Carol Kanyemba introduced Victoria Mbali and Masela Sekeseke for Beatrice Njobvu and Grace Phiri. 

With only ten minutes left to play, Mbali finished off a Ruth Mukoma low cross to make it 3-1. 

A minute later, The substitute turned provider, setting up Mukoma for a close range finish, putting the final  nail in the Benin Coffin. 

Jessica Choolwe Johnson came on for Hellen Banda as Zambia just winded down the clock to record an emphatic 4-1 away win. 

The Copper Princesses will be making their  3rd World Cup appearance after making it to the 2014 and 2024 editions.

The 2025 edition which will be the 9th edition of the global showpiece will be hosted by Morocco between 17th October and 8th November 2025. 

Full-Time 

Benin 1-4 Zambia 

(Ismath Kotou 14’| Mercy Chipasula 4′, 8′, Victoria Mbali 80′, Ruth Mukoma 81′) 

Aggregate: 2-6