Zambia Names 35-Member Squad for Friendlies Against South Africa and Botswana
The Zambia Women’s National Team, known as the Copper Queens, will kick off their preparations for the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2025 with two high-profile international friendlies against South Africa and Botswana during the FIFA Women’s International Match Window from 26 May to 3 June 2025.
As part of the build-up to the continental showpiece, Coach Nora Häuptle has named a 35-member provisional squad, featuring several returnees and debutants. The team will take on reigning African champions South Africa on 31 May, followed by a clash with Botswana on 3 June. Both matches will be played in South Africa.
Key Inclusions and Returns Highlight Squad Selection
One of the most notable returns is that of goalkeeper Leticia Lungu (ZESCO Ndola Girls), who makes her comeback after a one-year absence from international duty. The squad also sees the inclusion of Margaret Phiri (The Elite Ladies) and Margaret Gondwe (Green Buffaloes), both earning their first senior call-ups.
Other key returnees include Zamiwe Mukokomena (Indeni Roses), Josephine Lubinda (Choma Warriors), and the Red Arrows duo of Mary Wilombe and Mary Mambwe.
Coach Häuptle’s squad blends international experience with domestic rising stars, including Europe and USA-based talents like Racheal Kundananji, Grace Chanda, Barbra Banda, and Prisca Chilufya.
WAFCON 2025: Copper Queens in Group of Death
Zambia has been drawn in Group A of WAFCON 2025, alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal, and DR Congo. Originally slated for 2024, the tournament was postponed to 5–26 July 2025 due to CAF calendar revisions.
The Copper Queens will be looking to better their 2022 semifinal finish and will use these friendlies to fine-tune tactics, team chemistry, and match fitness before heading to Morocco.
Full 35-Member Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers:
Leticia Lungu (ZESCO Ndola Girls), Mwila Chishala Mufunte (Green Buffaloes), Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows), Margaret Phiri (The Elite Ladies), Eunice Sakala (Indeni Roses)
Defenders:
Martha Tembo, Lushomo Mweemba (both Hakkarigucu Spor-Turkey), Margaret Belemu (Red Arrows), Margaret Gondwe, Esther Siamfuko (Green Buffaloes), Josephine Lubinda (Choma Warriors), Zamiwe Mukokomena (Indeni Roses), Matildah Mukunda (The Elite Ladies), Judith Soko (ZESCO Ndola Girls), Pauline Zulu (ZANACO Ladies)
Midfielders:
Ireen Lungu (Sichuan-China), Xiomara Mapepa (Beijing Jingstan FC-China), Racheal Nachula (Hapoel Jerusalem-Israel), Grace Chanda, Prisca Chilufya (both Orlando Pride-USA), Maweta Chilenga, Evarine Susan Katongo, Natasha Nanyangwe (Green Buffaloes), Rhoda Chileshe (Indeni Roses), Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Blue Eagles Queens), Avell Chitundu, Marjory Mulenga (ZESCO Ndola Girls), Mapalo Maluba (Nchanga Rangers Queens), Mary Wilombe, Mary Mambwe (Red Arrows)
Strikers:
Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride-USA), Fridah Mukoma (Beijing Jingstan FC-China), Kabange Mupopo (Henan WFC-China), Racheal Kundananji (Bay FC-USA), Penelope Mulubwa (ZESCO Ndola Girls)
