Hazel Nali Honoured to Be Back as Copper Queens Prepare for WAFCON

Copper Queens goalkeeper Hazel Natasha Nali has described her return to the Zambia Women’s National Team as a proud and emotional moment as preparations intensify for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to kick off in March in Morocco.

Nali’s journey back to the national team has been long and demanding. The experienced shot-stopper had been absent since 12 July 2023 after suffering a serious knee injury that ruled her out of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and kept her sidelined from major international tournaments. The setback was a major blow for both the player and the national team, as Zambia lost its first-choice goalkeeper at a crucial time.

Her return to international football came during the Four Nations Tournament hosted by Malawi last year, where the Copper Queens emerged victorious. That tournament marked Nali’s first appearance for Zambia since her injury, signalling a successful comeback and restoring her confidence at the highest level. The tournament also provided valuable match sharpness as she worked her way back into full competitive rhythm.

Now fully recovered and playing regular football with Zesco Ndola Girls, Nali has been recalled to the Copper Queens camp as part of preparations for WAFCON Morocco. Speaking during camp, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to wear the national colours again, describing it as an honour after enduring a difficult period away from the pitch.

Nali also stressed the importance of thorough preparations ahead of the continental showpiece, calling for adequate training time and high-profile international friendly matches. She believes such preparations are essential if the Copper Queens are to compete effectively against Africa’s top teams.

Reacting to Zambia’s Group C draw at WAFCON, which includes defending champions Nigeria, Egypt, and neighbours Malawi, Nali acknowledged the challenge ahead but remained optimistic. She noted that facing strong opponents will test the team’s readiness and help measure their progress as they aim to advance deep into the tournament.

With WAFCON also serving as a pathway toward future global competitions, the Copper Queens are determined to build on the momentum gained from the Four Nations Tournament success as they head to Morocco with renewed belief and ambition.