Zambia captain Barbra Banda has challenged her side to raise their standards and improve organisation as the Copper Queens prepare to face Brazil women’s national football team in the FIFA Series in Brazil.
The Copper Queens head into Tuesday’s fixture seeking a response after a heavy 4-0 defeat to Canada women’s national soccer team in their tournament opener — a result Banda believes exposed key structural weaknesses rather than a lack of talent.
“We’ve learned a lot from the first game,” Banda said. “We know Brazil won’t be easy, but as a team we are trying everything possible to organise ourselves and go after them.”
Learning opportunity — but lessons must translate
Facing world-class opposition is something Banda relishes, especially with a youthful squad still finding its footing at the highest level.
“These are the teams we need to learn from,” she said. “It’s a good opportunity for our young players to showcase their talent. They are skillful and this is the stage for them.”
But beyond the development narrative, the striker was clear that improvement must be visible on the pitch.
“These are good games, but we have not organised well. Every player can compete at the top level, but without organisation, it won’t work. It’s not magic — we have to make it happen ourselves.”
Call for structural support
In a candid assessment, Banda broadened the conversation beyond the players, calling for greater backing from football authorities to ensure Zambia can consistently compete with elite nations.
“I would like to see more change,” she said. “We can do better, but preparation is key. From the association to the government, support is important because we are representing Zambia with pride.”
Club rivalry set aside
The match will also carry a personal subplot, with Banda set to face her Orlando Pride teammate Angelina on the international stage.
“Football is about competing,” Banda said. “We are teammates at club level, but on the pitch, we fight for our countries. Friendship is put aside.”
A message to fans
Despite the disappointment of their opening result, Banda insisted the team remains motivated to deliver for supporters back home.
“We always want to make our fans happy,” she said. “They may not see everything we go through, but we are doing our best for our mother Zambia. We hope for the best and ask them to keep supporting us.”
Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 local time in Brazil (03:00 Wednesday Zambian time).
organize that defense. you can’t have four players chasing the ball in the danger zone leaving opponents unmarked and the ball in ping ponging. Clear your lines, clear the ball mark space and width. it is always a good idea to attack the ball square than from the side because once you are beaten you leave the team vulnerable