Zambia Under-17 Women’s National Team forward Jessica Johnson has urged the Copper Princesses to show greater consistency, focus and discipline as they seek to revive their 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign following a 5-0 defeat to Japan in Morocco.
Johnson, who made her first World Cup appearance in Zambia’s Group D opener, described the experience as exciting despite the disappointing result. The young forward believes the team must learn from the defeat, work harder in training and correct its shortcomings ahead of the remaining group fixtures.
“It was very exciting. Obviously, it’s my first time, so just happy to step on the pitch,” Johnson said.
The forward acknowledged the challenge posed by Japan but stressed that the encounter had provided valuable lessons for the Copper Princesses as they prepare for their next assignment.
“Tough game. We knew it was going to be tough from the start, so we’re just trying our best. I think it just means for us to build on what we already know, and try and work harder in training just so we can get all the basics right,” she said.
With two group matches remaining, Johnson believes Zambia can still respond positively if the players remain disciplined, understand their individual responsibilities and follow the technical bench’s instructions.
“I think this game will just help us build momentum for the next game. I think we just need to focus on our own roles and listen to what the coach is saying. I think we’ll be fine,” she added.
Reflecting on Japan’s performance, Johnson identified composure and consistency as important differences between the two sides. She admitted that Zambia struggled to maintain their intensity throughout the encounter, allowing their opponents to take control.
“I think Japan, they stayed composed the whole time, and they stayed consistent throughout the end. Energy-wise, I think we dropped our levels,” she said.
Johnson also assessed her individual performance, explaining that a positional adjustment helped her become more involved after struggling to receive the ball during the first half.
“In the first half I was definitely isolated. I didn’t get the ball as much, but as I went in to the inside, I got more of the ball and was able to switch the ball more,” she explained.
Despite the heavy opening defeat, the forward remains optimistic about Zambia’s chances of recovering, insisting that hard work and improved performances could help the team remain competitive in Group D.
“I think the chances are high. If we work hard, then I feel like we’ll be able to pull through,” Johnson said.
She also appealed to Zambian supporters to continue backing the young team as the Copper Princesses seek to make amends for their opening-day disappointment.
“Keep watching, ’cause we’re here. We’re doing it for you guys, so we hope we do the best we can,” she said.
The Copper Princesses will next face Venezuela on Wednesday before concluding their Group D campaign against France. Both matches will be crucial to Zambia’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
Following their defeat to Japan, the Copper Princesses will need to improve their concentration, energy levels and decision-making. Johnson’s message is clear: the team must learn from the setback, remain united and approach the remaining fixtures with renewed determination.
