Grace Chanda Returns as Häuptle Unveils Copper Queens Squad for China Tournament

The Zambia Women’s National Team will compete in the 2025 Yongchuan International Tournament in China as part of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 preparations. Head coach Nora Häuptle has named a strong 24-player squad for the tournament, which runs from April 5-8 in Chongqing, China.

The four-nation tournament will feature hosts China, Uzbekistan, and Thailand, providing Zambia with crucial competitive action ahead of WAFCON 2024, scheduled for July 5-26 in Morocco. The Copper Queens have been drawn into Group A alongside Morocco, Senegal, and DR Congo.

Grace Chanda Makes Long-Awaited Return

One of the biggest talking points in Häuptle’s squad is the return of Orlando Pride midfielder Grace Chanda, who has been sidelined since the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifiers due to injury. Prisca Chilufya, who recently joined Orlando Pride, also makes her comeback after missing the last two international friendlies against Malawi.

Indeni Roses duo Eunice Sakala (goalkeeper) and Rhoda Chileshe (midfielder) have earned call-ups, while ZISD Women defender Jackline Chomba returns to the squad after featuring in the COSAFA Women’s Championship.

Notable Omissions

Despite naming a strong squad, Green Buffaloes goalkeeper Ngambo Musole, forward Ochumba Oseke, and Zesco Ndola Girls midfielder Avell Chitundu are among the notable absentees.

Full Copper Queens Squad

Goalkeepers

• Mwila Chishala Mufunte (Green Buffaloes)

• Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows)

• Eunice Sakala (Indeni Roses)

Defenders

• Margaret Belemu (Red Arrows)

• Jackline Chomba (ZISD Women)

• Blessing Mapalo Maluba (Nchanga Queens)

• Matildah Mukunda (Elite Ladies)

• Lushomo Mweemba, Martha Tembo (both Hakkarigucu-Turkey)

• Esther Siamfuko (Green Buffaloes)

• Judith Soko (ZESCO Ndola Girls)

• Pauline Zulu (Zanaco Ladies)

Midfielders

• Grace Chanda, Prisca Chilufya (both Orlando Pride-USA)

• Rhoda Chileshe (Indeni Roses)

• Evarine Susan Katongo, Natasha Nanyangwe (both Green Buffaloes)

• Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Blue Eagles)

• Ireen Lungu (Sichuan-China)

• Racheal Nachula (Hapoel Jerusalem-Israel)

Strikers

• Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride-USA)

• Racheal Kundananji (Bay FC-USA)

• Kabange Mupopo (Henan Jianye-China)

• Fridah Mukoma (Beijing Jingstan FC-China)

Copper Queens Eye Competitive Test Ahead of WAFCON 2024

This tournament will serve as a key preparatory event for the Copper Queens ahead of the continental showdown in Morocco. Coach Häuptle will be looking to fine-tune her squad, test different tactical approaches, and assess player fitness levels before heading into WAFCON.

With the return of key players and a mix of youth and experience, the Copper Queens will be aiming to make a statement in China as they continue their journey toward African football’s biggest stage.