Zambia is set to host a Four Nations Tournament during the June FIFA international window as preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The tournament is scheduled to take place between June 1 and 9, 2026, and is expected to feature Zambia, Kenya, and Zimbabwe.
However, Burkina Faso’s participation is now reportedly in doubt, with organisers expected to unveil another national team as a possible replacement soon.
Important Preparations for Copper Queens
The tournament will provide the Copper Queens with valuable competitive matches as they continue preparations for the upcoming WAFCON tournament.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to run from July 25 to August 16, 2026.
Beyond continental glory, the tournament will also serve as a qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, increasing the importance of preparations for participating nations.
Nora Häuptle Expected Back
Copper Queens head coach Nora Häuptle is expected back in Zambia on Sunday ahead of the tournament.
A press conference is also anticipated where the Swiss tactician is expected to officially announce her squad for the competition.
The tournament could provide Häuptle with an important opportunity to assess combinations and fine-tune the team before WAFCON begins.
Kenya Confirm Fixtures
Meanwhile, Kenya has already confirmed part of its tournament schedule.
The Harambee Starlets are expected to begin their campaign against Zimbabwe on June 6 before facing hosts Zambia on June 9, 2026.
The fixtures are expected to attract significant attention as regional rivals continue building towards WAFCON.
Growing Momentum Around Women’s Football
The tournament further highlights the growing investment and attention surrounding women’s football in Africa.
For Zambia, hosting the event provides another important platform to prepare the Copper Queens against competitive opposition while also giving local supporters the opportunity to watch the national team before WAFCON.
The Copper Queens have continued establishing themselves among Africa’s strongest women’s national teams in recent years.
Conclusion
The upcoming Four Nations Tournament promises to play a key role in Zambia’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
With Kenya and Zimbabwe already confirmed and another team expected to replace Burkina Faso, the competition should provide valuable international experience ahead of one of the biggest tournaments in African women’s football.
Attention will now shift towards Nora Häuptle’s expected squad announcement and the final confirmation of participating teams.
