By Bola Yapa Zed | 29th October 2025
The Zambia U17 Women’s National Team popularly known as the Copper Princesses are gearing up for a monumental Round of 16 clash against Canada at the ongoing FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. Head coach Carol Kanyemba says her side has been analyzing Canada’s strengths and weaknesses and is confident her team can cause an upset if they execute their game plan effectively.
After a historic 4–0 triumph over New Zealand that sealed Zambia’s passage to the knockout stage for the first time ever, Kanyemba and her technical bench are focused on ensuring the girls stay grounded and approach the next challenge with renewed energy and focus.
Kanyemba: “Every Team Has Weaknesses — We’ll Capitalize”
Speaking ahead of the game, Coach Carol Kanyemba expressed admiration for Canada’s structure and physical strength but was quick to point out that no team is perfect — and her side has been preparing to exploit the weaknesses they’ve identified.
“It’s a good team, a well-structured team. They get physical at times, like the game they played against Nigeria was a physical one,” said Kanyemba.
“But every team has got its own weaknesses. We’ve been working on how we can capitalize on those weaknesses. Our prayer is that tomorrow, as we face them, our girls will be able to come to the party as they did against New Zealand and give it their all.”
Kanyemba revealed that after a recovery period following their win over New Zealand, the team has been focusing on tactical adjustments to deal with Canada’s pressing game. She emphasized the importance of focus, discipline, and belief in their abilities.
“That game is behind us now,” she added. “The challenge we have now is different, so we must face it with a new attitude. The attitude should be positive — we shouldn’t look down on ourselves but believe in our abilities as a team.”
Faith Kaunda: “We’ll Fight for a Positive Result”
Defender Faith Kaunda echoed her coach’s sentiments, insisting that the Copper Princesses are ready to give everything on the pitch.
“We are fighting for this game. We want to win this game. We will fight very hard to get a positive result,” Kaunda said confidently.
Kaunda’s words reflect the fighting spirit that has characterized this Zambian team throughout the competition a youthful squad that has grown in confidence and belief after each match.
The Copper Princesses’ journey to the knockout stage has already been historic their first-ever qualification for the Round of 16 at any FIFA women’s tournament. Having recovered from defeats to Paraguay (2–1) and Japan (2–0), Zambia’s emphatic win over New Zealand demonstrated resilience and tactical maturity beyond their years.
Canada, meanwhile, have been one of the most dominant sides in the competition, topping Group D after beating Nigeria 4–1, Samoa 6–0, and France 2–1. Facing such an in-form opponent is a huge test for Zambia, but Kanyemba’s technical approach and the players’ growing confidence could make this one of the tournament’s most intriguing fixtures.
The Copper Princesses have already made history, but they aren’t done yet. As they face Canada under the Moroccan floodlights, Carol Kanyemba’s side carries the hopes of a nation and the spirit of belief that has defined Zambia’s football story in recent years.
Whether they advance or not, their journey has already inspired a generation and with the right attitude and focus, another miracle may just be on the horizon.
