The Zambia women’s national football team booked their place in the semi-finals of the COSAFA Women’s Championship after rallying from behind to defeat the Eswatini women’s national football team 2–1 in their final Group B fixture in South Africa. The defending champions once again demonstrated resilience, overturning an early deficit to secure qualification for the last four.
Eswatini drew first blood in the 14th minute through Nonjabuliso Mogkale, capitalising on a momentary lapse in Zambia’s defensive structure. The early setback momentarily unsettled the Copper Queens, who struggled to find attacking fluency in the opening exchanges. However, their response was swift and decisive. Agness Musesa restored parity in the 21st minute, finishing clinically to shift the momentum back in Zambia’s favour before the halftime interval.
The decisive breakthrough arrived in the 52nd minute when substitute Avell Chitundu made an immediate impact off the bench, slotting home what proved to be the winning goal. Zambia showed improved cohesion and tempo in the second half, controlling possession more effectively and limiting Eswatini’s counter-attacking opportunities as they managed the closing stages with composure.
Assistant coach Charles Halubono acknowledged the team’s slow start but expressed satisfaction with the reaction shown after conceding. He emphasized that the technical bench remains focused on continuous improvement as Zambia targets a place in the final. Midfielder Maweta Chilenga, who was named Player of the Match, credited the victory to collective effort and thanked supporters for their backing. She admitted the team lacked rhythm in the first half but highlighted their improved structure and unity after the break as the defining factor in the turnaround.
The Copper Queens’ progression underscores their tournament maturity and ability to navigate adversity. Having absorbed early pressure and recalibrated tactically, Zambia now advances to the semi-finals with renewed confidence and championship intent. The objective is clear: defend the crown and return to the final stage once more.
