Zambia Women’s National Team midfielder Evarine Susan Katongo has emphasized unity, competition, resilience, and an unwavering hunger for success as the defining outcomes of the Copper Queens’ recently concluded local camp, as preparations intensify for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2026. With continental glory and FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification firmly in sight, Katongo believes the foundations for a stronger campaign have already been laid.
The Green Buffaloes Women’s FC star was part of the 38-member provisional squad named by head coach Nora Elizabeth Häuptle, marking the first major step in Zambia’s journey toward both WAFCON success and a historic push for Brazil 2027. Speaking after camp concluded, Katongo painted the picture of a squad driven by ambition, accountability, and collective purpose.
Unity and Self-Assessment at the Core of Camp
Katongo described the camp as productive and demanding, with players pushing themselves to showcase their abilities while also embracing collective responsibility. According to the experienced midfielder, the local-based players used the camp to honestly assess their performances, identify weaknesses, and correct mistakes through focused training sessions.
She noted that the environment fostered unity, with players supporting one another while maintaining high standards. That balance, Katongo explained, is crucial for building a team capable of competing at the highest level, particularly in a tournament where small margins often decide outcomes.
The midfielder believes the sense of togetherness developed during camp will be vital as the Copper Queens prepare to face Africa’s strongest sides in Morocco.
Fierce Competition Driving Standards Higher
Competition for places was intense throughout camp, with every player fully aware of what is at stake as the final WAFCON squad begins to take shape. Katongo revealed that no one held back, as each player fought to impress the technical bench and earn a place on the plane to Morocco.
She stressed that such competition is healthy and necessary for a team with ambitions of progressing deep into the tournament. The desire to be part of the final squad pushed players to work harder, train smarter, and remain fully focused throughout the camp.
For Katongo, this internal competition is a positive sign that the Copper Queens are evolving into a squad driven by merit and performance rather than reputation.
World Cup Qualification Shapes the Bigger Picture
While WAFCON success remains the immediate objective, Katongo made it clear that the Copper Queens’ ambitions stretch beyond continental competition. With the top four teams at WAFCON securing automatic qualification for the Brazil 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the tournament carries enormous significance.
Drawing lessons from previous tournaments, Katongo said the team is determined to avoid repeating past shortcomings. The focus, she explained, is to reach at least the semi-finals and ensure Zambia remains present on the global stage.
This renewed mindset has reshaped how the squad approaches preparation, with every training session viewed as a crucial step toward long-term success.
‘Copper to Gold’ as a Driving Force
Central to the Copper Queens’ identity is the rallying cry “Copper to Gold,” a slogan Katongo says has grown into a powerful source of motivation. According to her, the phrase constantly reminds the players of their ultimate goal—to return home as African champions.
Katongo explained that the slogan has helped keep the squad focused, disciplined, and mentally prepared for the demands of top-level competition. It reinforces the belief that Zambia has what it takes to compete with the best and transform potential into silverware.
For the midfielder, “Copper to Gold” is no longer symbolic—it is the standard the team has committed itself to.
Maintaining Momentum at Club Level
With domestic leagues still ongoing, Katongo stressed the importance of maintaining intensity even outside national team duty. She highlighted that consistent performances at club level will be essential in keeping players fit, sharp, and mentally ready for international football.
She urged players not to relax, noting that competitive league action provides the perfect platform to sustain momentum and focus. Katongo believes that arriving at national team camps in peak condition will allow the Copper Queens to build seamlessly toward tournament football.
Strength Through Personal Adversity
The camp coincided with a deeply personal challenge for Katongo, who showed remarkable resilience following the loss of her brother. Despite the emotional burden, she remained committed to her duties, demonstrating the mental strength required at elite level.
As a veteran of the 2022 and 2024 WAFCON tournaments, Katongo understands the expectations placed upon her and is determined to deliver performances that reflect her experience and leadership within the squad.
Conclusion
Zambia have been drawn in Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, Malawi, and Egypt, with WAFCON Morocco 2026 set to run from March 17 to April. With World Cup qualification on the line and expectations rising, the Copper Queens are no longer content with participation alone.
Driven by unity, fierce competition, and the powerful “Copper to Gold” mantra, the Copper Queens are setting their sights on rewriting history—turning ambition into achievement and belief into success on Africa’s biggest stage.
