Copper Queens Ready to Seal WAFCON Qualification Against Namibia – Kundananji & Hauptle

25.10.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️

The Copper Queens are gearing up for a decisive clash against Namibia on Sunday as they aim to secure their spot at the Morocco 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). With a 4-2 lead from the first leg in Soweto, Zambia heads into the return leg at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium confident but aware that the job is far from done.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, captain Rachael Kundananji emphasized the team’s determination.

"The team is ready. We have prepared well, and Coach Nora has helped us address our mistakes. The final 90 minutes are crucial—they will determine our fate," said Kundananji, who scored a hat-trick in the first leg and has been nominated for CAF Women Player of the Year.

"Our aim is to be at WAFCON, and we are not backing down. Playing before a packed stadium is a huge motivation—it pushes us to work harder and give our best."

Coach Nora Hauptle echoed her captain’s confidence but stressed the need for focus and discipline.

"We know playing at home brings its own challenges. Despite leading 4-2, we must remain focused and finish the job," Hauptle said. "Consistency comes from getting the basics right over 90 minutes. We need to improve in areas like defense, set pieces, and possession to maintain control of the game."

Hauptle also expressed excitement at the prospect of a full stadium.

"I’m already feeling goosebumps. Playing in front of a packed stadium is what we want. We aim to play with offensive fullbacks, and sometimes we convert wingers or holding midfielders into this role," she added.

The second leg kicks off at 15:00 on Sunday at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. Tickets are on sale across Shoprite outlets via Computicket, priced at K50 (North, South & East), K150 (West), and K250 (VIP).

The winner over the two legs will qualify for WAFCON 2026, which takes place in March next year. The top four teams at the tournament will automatically secure a spot at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil 2027, making Sunday’s clash a critical step for Zambia on the road to international glory.