Defending champions Zambia women’s national football team opened their 2025 Hollywoodbets COSAFA Women’s Championship campaign with a commanding 3–0 victory over Botswana to move top of Group B.
The result places Zambia level on three points with Zimbabwe, but ahead on goal difference following a superior winning margin.
Zambia wasted little time stamping their authority on the contest. Regina Chanda broke the deadlock in the 16th minute, giving the Copper Queens an early advantage and setting the tempo for the remainder of the half.
Susan Banda doubled the lead in first-half stoppage time (45+2), ensuring Zambia went into the break firmly in control. The defending champions displayed composure in possession and efficiency in the final third, restricting Botswana’s attacking opportunities.
Kabange Mupopo added the third goal in the 72nd minute to seal a comprehensive victory and underline Zambia’s intent to retain the regional crown.
In the earlier Group B fixture, Zimbabwe women’s national football team defeated Eswatini women’s national football team 2–0, meaning both Zambia and Zimbabwe sit on three points after their opening matches.
However, Zambia occupies top spot courtesy of their stronger goal difference following the 3–0 win.
The Copper Queens have made a strong statement in defense of their COSAFA title, combining attacking sharpness with defensive solidity to secure maximum points.
Attention now turns to Sunday’s decisive Group B clash against Zimbabwe at 15:00hrs CAT — a fixture that could significantly shape the group standings.
