Copper Queens Soar in FIFA Rankings: A Triumph for Zambian Women's Football

15.03.2024 | Football in my DNA

In a remarkable achievement for Zambian women's football, the Copper Queens of the Zambia Women’s National Team have made significant strides in the latest FIFA world rankings. Climbing five places to 65th, this ascent underscores their growing prominence on both the continental and global stages.

Under the astute leadership of coach Bruce Mwape, the team's ascent has been steady and impressive, fueled by recent milestones such as their inaugural appearance at the FIFA World Women's Cup.

The surge in rankings can be directly attributed to their stellar performance in the Paris 2024 Olympic Qualifiers, where they demonstrated resilience and skill by defeating Ghana 4-3 on aggregate, securing a coveted spot in the final round of qualifying.

Their rise positions them as the fifth-ranked team in Africa, trailing behind powerhouses like Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, and Ghana. The anticipation builds for the next FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking, scheduled for release on 14 June 2024.

Looking ahead, Bruce Mwape's squad faces a pivotal challenge against Morocco in a two-leg playoff, with the goal of clinching a coveted spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The first leg, slated for Ndola on 5 April, promises to be a test of skill and determination.

On the global stage, Spain continues to lead the rankings, with England, France, the USA, and Germany rounding out the top five. As the Copper Queens soar, their journey inspires not only their nation but also the broader landscape of women's football worldwide.