The exclusion of ZESCO Ndola Girls captain Avell Chitundu from the Copper Queens’ provisional squad to face Namibia in the 2026 WAFCON Qualifiers has sparked widespread backlash among football supporters and pundits, who argue that the decision defies both logic and merit.
Chitundu currently top scorer in the Eden University Women’s Super League with eight goals, and the only player in the league to score in four consecutive matches was expected to headline the squad. Instead, her name is nowhere to be found, not even among standby players.
Football Community Reacts: “Uyu Mufana Niwa Bola”
Football analyst Fee Phil expressed disbelief at the snub:
“One name is not part of the squad and not injured. Avell Chitundu is nowhere near the squad. Players should be selected based on current form, not past glory. Uyu mufana niwabola.”
He further noted that Chitundu previously earned a national call-up only after fans demanded it, suggesting history may be repeating itself.
Augustine Mukoka Questions Nora Häuptle’s Logic
Sports journalist Augustine Mukoka was equally puzzled, calling it “a Copper Queen omission that doesn’t make sense.”
Mukoka highlighted that Chitundu’s individual contribution is almost 50% of ZESCO’s total goals this season — yet strikers with fewer numbers were selected ahead of her.
Seeking clarity, Mukoka personally reached out to Coach Nora Häuptle, who responded:
“Avell injured during Champions League and also left local pre-camp after a day due to the same medical issue. I hope she recovers sustainably.”
Still unconvinced, Mukoka pressed further, comparing the situation to Susan Banda, who returned from long-term injury yet made the squad.
Nora then referred Mukoka to FAZ Media Team for further answers.
Public Call for Transparency
Many fans now believe selection bias or internal politics may be at play.
“Who has Avell wronged? What more should a player do apart from being at peak form?” questioned supporters across social platforms.
With Zambia chasing back-to-back WAFCON qualification, calls are growing for FAZ and the technical bench to reconsider or provide full medical clarity.
