The Zambia Women’s Under-17 National Team has arrived in Lubumbashi, DR Congo, ahead of Saturday’s decisive second-leg clash in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 qualifiers.
Coach Carol Kanyemba’s side made the short journey by road on Thursday afternoon as preparations entered the final phase for the important encounter at Stade Frederick Kibasa Maliba.
The Copper Princesses travel with confidence after producing a dominant performance in the first leg, where they defeated DR Congo 5-0 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
Zambia Carry Commanding Advantage
The Copper Princesses placed themselves firmly in control of the tie following an impressive display in the first leg on May 23.
A hat-trick from Natasha Kasema, coupled with goals from Grace “Pogba” Phiri and Blessings Mutale, gave Zambia a comfortable five-goal cushion heading into the return fixture.
The result means Carol Kanyemba’s side are now favourites to progress to the next stage of the qualification campaign.
However, the team will be fully aware that the job is not yet complete and will be determined to maintain their focus away from home.
Eyeing a Place in the Third Round
Saturday’s encounter presents an opportunity for Zambia to secure qualification to the third and final qualifying round.
Should the Copper Princesses successfully navigate past DR Congo, they will face the winner of the tie between Ethiopia and Burundi.
The final qualifying round will determine which teams secure places at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026.
Chasing a Third Consecutive World Cup Appearance
The Copper Princesses are also chasing a remarkable milestone.
Zambia has qualified for the last two editions of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and is now aiming to make it three consecutive appearances on the global stage.
Such an achievement would further cement Zambia’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s strongest nations in women’s youth football.
Over recent years, the country has consistently produced talented young players capable of competing at the highest level.
Kanyemba’s Side Focused on the Mission
Despite holding a commanding aggregate lead, the technical bench is expected to approach the match with caution and professionalism.
The Copper Princesses have shown quality, discipline, and attacking flair throughout the qualifying campaign and will be eager to deliver another strong performance in Lubumbashi.
With a place in the next round within touching distance, Zambia’s young stars know that one more positive result could move them a step closer to another World Cup adventure.
Conclusion
The Copper Princesses head into Saturday’s second leg against DR Congo full of confidence after their dominant 5-0 first-leg victory in Ndola.
With qualification to the third round within reach and the dream of a third consecutive FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup appearance still alive, Carol Kanyemba’s side will be determined to finish the job in Lubumbashi.
