Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda has issued a bold statement of intent ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2026, insisting that Zambia must be ready to face and defeat the continent’s strongest teams if they are to succeed. Banda was reacting to Zambia’s challenging Group C draw, which includes reigning champions Nigeria, Egypt, and regional rivals Malawi.
Copper Queens Handed Tough Group C Test
The Copper Queens were drawn into what many observers have already labelled a “group of death” at WAFCON 2026, with Nigeria, Egypt and Malawi providing stiff opposition in the group stages of Africa’s premier women’s football tournament. Nigeria enters the competition as defending champions, while Egypt and Malawi have both shown steady improvement in recent continental campaigns.
Speaking after the draw, Banda acknowledged the difficulty of the group but remained confident that Zambia can rise to the challenge with the right preparation. She stressed that competing against the best teams is a necessary step for any side with genuine ambitions of continental success.
“I believe that when you want to be the best, you have to beat the best,” Banda said. “It’s a tough group and playing against the champions, which is Nigeria, we played them the last Africa Cup, and I think this time around we are up to do better when we meet again.”
Belief in Progress and Preparation
Banda pointed out that Zambia’s recent growth as a team gives her confidence that the Copper Queens can improve on their previous WAFCON outing. She highlighted the importance of adequate preparation, tactical alignment with the technical bench, and maintaining momentum heading into the tournament.
The Copper Queens captain also singled out Malawi as a dangerous opponent, noting the quality and competitiveness of their squad, while acknowledging Egypt as another major challenge in the group.
“It’s a group of death, but I think with the Copper Queens this time around we have to prepare adequately so that we go through to the next round,” Banda explained. “Every time I communicate with my coach, I feel we are moving at the same pace. We are heading somewhere, even though it’s a tough group.”
Banda Confirms Full Fitness After Injury Setback
In a major boost for Zambia, Banda confirmed that she has fully recovered from the hip injury she sustained in August, which sidelined her for three months and brought her NWSL season to a premature end. Her return to full fitness comes at a crucial time as preparations for WAFCON 2026 begin to take shape.
Banda revealed that several players have also been dealing with injuries during the off-season but believes the timing allows the team to regroup and build momentum through structured preparations and friendly matches.
“I’m sure by now everyone is back on their feet like I am,” she said. “That can help us have proper preparations and good friendly games so we can compete with those teams in our group.”
WAFCON 2026 Key to World Cup Qualification
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations carries extra significance, as it will also serve as a qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Banda emphasized that qualification for the global showpiece remains a top priority for the Copper Queens.
She acknowledged the disappointment of missing out on World Cup berths in the past and underlined the importance of making the most of this opportunity.
“It is very important for Zambia to make it again to the World Cup,” Banda said. “These are the games that are going to make us qualify for the World Cup, so definitely we have to do our best.”
Conclusion
With WAFCON Morocco 2026 scheduled to run from 17 March to 3 April 2026, the Copper Queens face a defining period in their journey as one of Africa’s rising women’s football nations. Barbra Banda’s confidence, leadership, and return to full fitness provide Zambia with renewed belief as preparations begin for a tournament that could shape the future of women’s football in the country.
