FAZ Confirms Absence of US-Based Quartet from Copper Queens’ China Assignment

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has confirmed that four US-based Copper Queens stars—Barbra Banda, Rachael Kundananji, Prisca Chilufya, and Grace Chanda—will not be traveling to China for the 2025 Yongchuan International Tournament. The quartet’s absence is due to newly introduced travel measures by the United States government, which have affected their ability to join the national team for the crucial international friendly matches.

FAZ Explains the Decision

FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga addressed the situation, stating that the decision was made in consultation with the US Zambian Mission in Washington and the players’ respective clubs—Orlando Pride (Banda, Chanda, Chilufya) and Bay FC (Kundananji). He emphasized that, after carefully reviewing the circumstances, the best course of action was to withdraw the players from the tournament.

“After working through the process instigated by recently introduced measures, it was decided that it is in the best interest of our players to skip this assignment,” Kamanga explained.

Despite their absence, Kamanga reassured fans that the players remain fully committed to the national team and will be available for future assignments, as evidenced by their participation in the previous international window when Zambia faced Malawi.

Replacements Called Up to Keep Squad Competitive

With the absence of four key players, the Copper Queens technical bench has made necessary adjustments to the squad, ensuring the team remains competitive for the tournament. The replacement players will now have an opportunity to showcase their abilities on the international stage as Zambia prepares for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to take place in July 2025 in Morocco.

Kamanga highlighted FAZ’s commitment to providing all Zambian teams with top-level preparation, citing the recent efforts for the Under-17 Boys’ team currently in Morocco for AFCON as an example. The association is keen on ensuring that the Copper Queens are fully prepared for their upcoming major tournaments.

Copper Queens’ Path at the Yongchuan International Tournament

Despite the setback, the Copper Queens are set to begin their Yongchuan International Tournament campaign on April 5, facing Thailand in their opening match. A win will secure a place in the final on April 8, where they will meet either hosts China PR or Uzbekistan.

The tournament presents an excellent preparatory opportunity for Coach Nora Häuptle to test her squad against top international opposition ahead of WAFCON 2024. The absence of Banda, Kundananji, Chilufya, and Chanda will undoubtedly be felt, but the team’s depth and resilience will be put to the test.

While the absence of the US-based stars is a setback for the Copper Queens, FAZ has acted in the best interest of the players by withdrawing them from the tournament. The focus remains on WAFCON 2024 preparations, with FAZ ensuring that the squad remains competitive and ready for upcoming challenges. The Yongchuan International Tournament will serve as a crucial test for the team, and Zambian fans will be eager to see how the revised squad performs in China.