The Zambia Women’s National Team will start their four-nations 2025 Yongchuan International Tournament campaign this afternoon.
The Copper Queens will face world’s 47th-ranked Thailand before facing either China or Uzbekistan next week.
Coach Nora Häuptle is using this tournament as part of preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations set for Morocco in July.
The Copper Queens will however be without the US based quartet of Skipper Barbra Banda, Rachel Kundananji, Grace Chanda and Prisca Chilufya because of new travel restrictions by the US Government.
Ochumba Oseke Lubanji, Penelope Mulubwa, Avell Chitundu and Maweta Chilenga were handed late call ups as replacements and they have since joined camp.
Coach Häuptle however feels it’s time for other players to step up and take up the opportunity in the absence of the quartet.
“Our preparations went well, basically we called up a 24 squad, four of our top players were not able to travel, so we are here with a young squad. We had some really good training sessions, perfect organization of the tournament, enjoying the hotel surroundings and the warm welcome,” she said.
“We want to give players exposure and also test new players. Since we don’t have four top players here it’s also time for other players to step in. We have five U20 players here,” she added.
In goal, Häuptle has options in Catherine Musonda who is expected to start ahead of Eunice Sakala and Mwila Mufunte.
Margaret Belemu is expected to start at right back with Martha Tembo or Judith Soko playing in the left back position.
Lushomo Mweemba is expected to be joined by Pauline Zulu in the heart of defense. Häuptle has options in Matilda Mukunda, and Jackline Chomba.
In midfield, Green Buffaloes star midfielder Evarine Susan Katongo is expected to be joined by teammate Natasha Nanyangwe and China based Ireen ‘Xavi’ Lungu.
Häuptle could also throw Blessings Maluba into the thick of things with Maweta Chilenga, Avell Chitundu and Rhoda Chileshe all available for selection.
Upfront, in the absence of Barbra Banda and Rachel Kundananji, Rachel Nachula will look to lead the team with Kabange Mupopo with Fridah Mukoma likely to take up one wing.
Ochumba Oseke Lubanji, Penelope Mulubwa and young Mercy Chipasula are other options available to coach Nora Häuptle.
Zambia will square off at 13h35 CAT at the Yongchuan Sports Centre Stadium prior to that hosts China PR face off with Uzbekistan at 09h30 CAT.
