The Zambia Women’s National Team will be seeking their second COSAFA Women’s Championship crown when they face off with South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in the final of the COSAFA Women’s Championship.
Zambia saw off Malawi via a 2-0 scoreline to reach the final while South Africa beat Mozambique 4-1 on post match penalties after a 1-1 draw.
The Copper Queens cruised through Group C with wins over Angola (3-0) and Comoros (7-0) to set up a repeat of last year’s final in the semi-final.
The final is a repeat of the 2022 final which Zambia won 1-0 courtesy of an extra time header from Balloon D’or nominee, Barbra Banda.
Coach Florence Mwila believes it’s very important for the team to push and get the trophy.
Mwila says the players are motivated, driven and have the desire to win the regional showpiece.
“These are the players we had confidence in that they will deliver. We are very proud of what they have done, how far they have pushed,” she said.
“It’s very important that we push to get that trophy. The girls have the drive and desire, They have the passion, you can see how they have pushed. We are not underrating, it is not going to be an easy game but the girls have the drive because they can see the trophy. “
Defender Pauline Zulu says the team wants to win the tournament this year having lost the final to Malawi last year.
“I am very happy to be in the final. It was my target to reach the final. This year we want to win the trophy, that’s the achievement we want,” she said.
Margaret Belemu is expected to lead the team from right back position with Pauline Zulu likely to partner either Jackline Chomba or Esther Muchinga at the heart of defence. Tabo Miselo is also available for selection.
Martha Katila Banda and Diana Banda will battle for a chance to rival ZESCO Ndola Girls Melody Kapimpi at the left back position where she has accounted well for herself in the three matches played so far.
Ng’ambo Petronella Musole is expected to start between the sticks ahead of Annie Namonje and Chimwemwe Mwale.
In midfield, Mwila is spoilt for choice with Evarine Susan Katongo expected to run things in the middle alongside Regina Chanda or Marjory Mulenga.
In form, Red Arrows youngster Bupe Banda, Ruth Mukusi, and Esther Mushota are all available for selection.
In attack, Mwila has options Ochumba Oseke Lubanji, Charity Mubanga, Lungowe Namasiku and Natasha Nanyangwe.
Ochumba is the favourite to lead the attack having scored four goals so far in the tournament and is eyeing the Golden boot.
Fridah Mukoma will continue on the wing after her brilliant performances in the three games scoring four goals and assisting two.
The Copper Queens have scored 12 goals so far in the campaign and are yet to concede a single goal.
The final will kick off at 15h00 CAT at Wolfson stadium and will be broadcast live on SuperSport, TopStar, the COSAFA YouTube Channel, and FIFA+.
MATCH DAY
COSAFA Women’s Championship| Final
Zambia vs South Africa
📆: Saturday , 2nd November, 2024
⌚: 15h00
🏟️: Wolfson Stadium
📺:SuperSport, TopStar, the COSAFA YouTube Channel, and FIFA+.
