The Zambia Women’s National Team has returned home after competing in the just-ended Three Nations International Friendly Series held in South Africa.
The squad touched down at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport on Tuesday at 12h43, bringing to a close a productive FIFA international window that saw the Copper Queens face Botswana and hosts South Africa in two high-profile matches.
The USA-based quartet of Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, Prisca Chilufya and Grace Chanda, along with China-based stars Kabange Mupopo and Fridah Mukoma, will travel directly to their respective bases from South Africa.
Other foreign-based players led by Xiomara Mapepa, Lushomo Mweemba, Martha Tembo, Ireen Lungu and Racheal Nachula returned to Zambia with the rest of the locally based squad.
The Copper Queens opened the three-nations series with a 1-1 draw against Botswana, before falling 2-0 against reigning Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions South Africa in the final match of the series.
Nora Häuptle’s side has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal and DR Congo at next month’s WAFCON 2024 (to be played in 2025), set to be held from 5–26 July.
[FAZ]
