Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has moved to clarify the status of several foreign-based players — notably Rachel Kundananji and Evarine Susan Katongo— as the Copper Queens intensify preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Head coach Nora Elizabeth Häuptle has named a 38-member provisional squad but could temporarily be without some overseas stars due to travel complications linked to heightened global security concerns stemming from the USA–Iran conflict, which has disrupted air travel in parts of the Middle East.

Kundananji, Katongo Travel Uncertainty

Among those facing travel delays is Bay FC forward Kundananji, whose movement is reportedly subject to precautionary security measures. Katongo, who features for Ra’anana WFC in Israel, is also affected.

Despite the uncertainty, Häuptle remains optimistic the duo — along with other impacted foreign-based players — will link up with the squad for the final phase of preparations ahead of the tournament in Morocco.

Katongo’s potential absence would be particularly significant. The midfielder has been a consistent performer at continental level, featuring at both the 2022 and 2024 editions of WAFCON. She was pivotal in 2022, scoring the decisive goal as Zambia stunned Nigeria 1-0 to secure a historic bronze medal.

Kundananji, meanwhile, has established herself as one of Zambia’s most reliable attacking outlets at the continental showpiece. Having featured at the 2018 and 2024 tournaments, she has scored six WAFCON goals — three in each edition — underlining her big-stage pedigree.

Also facing travel uncertainty are Ireene Lungu (Sichuan Jiangsu – China), Xiomara Mapepa (Altaraji Club – China), Hellen Chanda (Eastern Flames – Saudi Arabia), Ruth Mukoma (Shanghai WFC – China) and others caught in the evolving travel situation.

Dual Focus: WAFCON and FIFA Series

The Copper Queens have entered camp during the current FIFA international window (February 24 – March 7) with a dual objective: fine-tuning preparations for WAFCON and gearing up for the FIFA Series tournament in Brazil from April 11–18.

At WAFCON — scheduled for March 17 to April 3 in Morocco — Zambia have been drawn in a challenging Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, Malawi and Egypt.

The tournament also doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the top four teams earning automatic qualification.

For the FIFA Series, Zambia are set to face hosts Brazil, South Korea and Canada in what promises to be a stern test against varied opposition from different confederations.

WAFCON 38-MEMBER PROVISIONAL SQUAD

(GOALKEEPERS)

Mufunte Chishala (Green Buffaloes), Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows), Hazel Nali (Zesco Ndola Girls), Eunice Sakala (Indeni Roses)

(DEFENDERS)

Magaret Belemu (Red Arrows), Margaret Gondwe, Agness Musesa, Rachael Nachula, Memory Nthala, Esther Siamfuko (all Green Buffaloes), Maluba Blessings (Nchanga Queens), Saliya Mwanza (Elite Ladies), Judith Soko (Zesco Ndola Girls), Martha Tembo, Lushomo Mweemba (Hakkarigücü – Turkey), Xiomara Mapepa (Altaraji Club – China)

(MIDFIELDERS)

Susan Banda (Cekmekoy BilgiDoga Spor – Turkey), Rhodah Chileshe (Indeni Roses), Avell Chitundu (Zesco Ndola Girls), Sampa Chisanga, Natasha Witika (Konkola Blades), Grace Chanda (Club Querétaro – Mexico), Misozi Zulu (Hibernians – Malta), Hellen Chanda (Eastern Flames – Saudi Arabia), Evarine Katongo (Ra’anana WFC – Israel), Mary Wilombe (Red Arrows)

(STRIKERS)

Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride – USA), Regina Chanda (Zanaco Ladies), Maweta Chilenga, Agness Phiri (both Green Buffaloes), Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Police), Kabanghe Mupopo (Henan WFC – China), Eneless Phiri (Zesco Ndola Girls), Prisca Chilufya (Angel City FC – USA), Ruth Mukoma (Shanghai WFC – China), Rachael Kundananji (Bay FC – USA), Samiah Phiri (Evian Thonon – France), Chabwe Ngosa (Indeni Roses)