ZESCO Ndola Girls head coach William Zulu has voiced his confidence in his squad following the draw for the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League | COSAFA Qualifiers, where the Zambian champions were placed in a tough Group A alongside continental powerhouses Mamelodi Sundowns, Ntopwa FC of Malawi, and Beauties FC of Namibia.
Despite being placed in what many are calling the “group of death,” Zulu is unfazed and believes his team is prepared to rise to the occasion.
“Football is played on the pitch, so I believe in my girls. We’ll go there, work hard, and achieve what we want to achieve,” Zulu told reporters. “It’s a plus to play Sundowns. We’ll go there and play our game, without looking at their past record.”
Sundowns’ Dominance No Deterrent
Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies boast an intimidating record in the COSAFA region. They have never lost a match in regulation time at this competition, with their only defeat coming via penalties in the 2022 final against Zambia’s own Green Buffaloes.
With 11 wins, 2 draws, 52 goals scored, and just 4 conceded in 13 matches, Sundowns remain a formidable challenge. However, ZESCO Ndola Girls, known affectionately as Zegalicious, are ready to write their own story.
ZESCO’s Unbeaten Domestic Campaign
ZESCO Girls secured their place at the regional tournament after going unbeaten in the 2024/25 Eden University Women’s Super League, showcasing both defensive discipline and attacking flair. The Ndola-based outfit has been diligent in its preparations and has already tested itself in several friendlies:
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✅ 4-0 win over Indeni Roses
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🤝 0-0 draw with Red Arrows
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🤝 2-2 draw with Elite Ladies
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✅ 15-0 thrashing of Choma Warriors
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✅ 4-2 win over ZANACO Ladies
Final Test: Charity Shield vs Green Buffaloes
ZESCO will face Green Buffaloes—the only Zambian side to have previously won the COSAFA qualifiers—in the FAZ Charity Shield this Sunday. The match is expected to provide a tough test before they depart for Johannesburg for the tournament.
Group A – COSAFA Champions League Qualifiers
Only group winners advance, making every match a must-win. The tournament will be staged at AW Muller Stadium in Johannesburg from August 22 to 31, featuring a record 10 clubs.
