By Bola Yapa Zed Sports Desk | 12th January 2026
Copper Princesses head coach Carol Kanymbo has expressed confidence in Zambia’s chances of progressing to the next round of the Morocco 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers following the draw against Rwanda. The experienced tactician believes Zambia remain favourites and has outlined key focus areas as the team prepares to begin its qualification journey away from home.
Kanymbo Backs Zambia to Progress Past Rwanda
Reacting to the draw, Coach Kanymbo stated that Zambia is well-positioned to advance, stressing that the Copper Princesses have grown significantly through recent international exposure. She described Zambia as favourites to progress, provided the team executes its game plan effectively across the two-legged tie.
The Copper Princesses will play the first leg away to Rwanda before hosting the return fixture in Ndola, a scenario Kanymbo believes works in Zambia’s favour. According to the coach, starting away gives the team an opportunity to manage the tie strategically and capitalize on home advantage in the decisive second leg.
Finishing Identified as Key Area for Improvement
While confident, Kanymbo admitted that her side must improve in one crucial department — finishing. The coach highlighted goal conversion as the main area of concern, noting that creating chances has not been an issue, but turning opportunities into goals remains a priority.
She emphasized that addressing this weakness will be central to Zambia’s preparations ahead of the qualifiers, especially against opponents who may adopt a compact and defensive approach over two legs.
Squad Transition as Players Graduate
Kanymbo also revealed that the team is undergoing a period of transition after around 10 players from the previous squad graduated, making recruitment a key focus ahead of the qualifiers. She confirmed that the technical bench is actively scouting and integrating new players to strengthen the squad.
Despite the changes, the coach expressed confidence that the transition will be smooth, explaining that players who have remained with the team will play an important role in helping newcomers adapt to the Copper Princesses’ playing philosophy and demands of international football.
Targeting Historic Third Consecutive World Cup Qualification
Looking ahead, Kanymbo made it clear that her ultimate goal is to qualify for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup for a third consecutive time. Zambia previously qualified for the 2024 tournament in the Dominican Republic and the 2025 edition in Morocco, establishing themselves as one of Africa’s most consistent youth women’s teams.
She believes that experience, leadership within the squad, and continued development will be key as Zambia attempt to maintain their place on the global stage.
Conclusion
Coach Carol Kanymbo’s reaction reflects both confidence and realism as the Copper Princesses prepare to face Rwanda in the Morocco 2026 qualifiers. While Zambia are favourites on paper, improvements in finishing and successful integration of new players will be decisive. With a clear vision and a proven track record, the Copper Princesses remain firmly focused on making history with a third straight FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup appearance.
