The Zambia Women’s National Team has left for China to compete at the 2025 Yongchuan International Tournament, set to be held in Chongqing from April 5-8.
A contingent of 14 locally-based players departed Kenneth Kaunda International Airport at 15h25 aboard Qatar Airways and will be joined by 10 foreign-based players in China.
The team led by coach Nora Häuptle will compete in the four-nation tournament alongside hosts China PR, Uzbekistan and Thailand.
Zambia will open their campaign against Thailand on April 5. A win will secure them a spot in the final on April 8 against either China PR or Uzbekistan.
The tournament serves as a key preparatory event for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) (to be played in 2025), set for July in Morocco. It will also provide Häuptle with an opportunity to test the Copper Queens against top opposition.
24-MEMBER SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS
Mwila Chishala Mufunte (Green Buffaloes), Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows), Eunice Sakala (Indeni Roses)
DEFENDERS
Margaret Belemu (Red Arrows), Jackline Chomba (ZISD Women), Blessing Mapalo Maluba (Nchanga Queens), Matildah Mukunda (Elite Ladies), Lushomo Mweemba, Martha Tembo (both Hakkarigucu-Turkey), Esther Siamfuko (Green Buffaloes), Judith Soko (ZESCO Ndola Girls), Pauline Zulu (Zanaco Ladies)
MIDFIELDERS
Grace Chanda, Prisca Chilufya (both Orlando Pride-USA), Rhoda Chileshe (Indeni Roses), Evarine Susan Katongo, Natasha Nanyangwe (both Green Buffaloes), Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Blue Eagles), Ireen Lungu (Sichuan-China), Racheal Nachula (Hapoel Jerusalem-Israel)
STRIKERS
Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride-USA), Racheal Kundananji (Bay FC-USA), Kabange Mupopo (Henan Jianye-China), Fridah Mukoma (Beijing Jingstan FC-China)
By FAZ Media
