NO FEAR, JUST FOCUS – BARBRA BANDA

14.07.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️

Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda says Zambia’s unbeaten run through the group stage is proof of the growing cohesion and character in the squad as they gear up for a mouthwatering TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarterfinal showdown with Nigeria on Friday.

Zambia finished their Group A campaign with seven points, setting up a blockbuster clash with the Super Falcons of Nigeria—a rematch of the 2022 WAFCON bronze medal match, which the Copper Queens famously won 1-0.

Reflecting on the decisive 1-0 win over DR Congo that secured second place in the group, Banda was quick to highlight the team’s adherence to their core values and game plan.

“The game against DR Congo was good. I think we had a lot of possession and we stuck to our values and principles, which the coach wanted,” Banda said.

“We played so well as a team and we are heading in the right direction. It’s a good record coming out of the first round without a loss. Now we are looking forward to the quarterfinals—we are up and ready for it.”

With four goals conceded in their opening two games, Banda also pointed to the clean sheet against DR Congo as evidence of the team’s improvements, especially defensively.

“This is what we were working on. We played two games that we conceded, and went back to our drawing board to correct our mistakes. Everyone saw that the team was very organised, and we had so much possession starting from the build-up to the front.”

As they prepare to face Nigeria, Banda stressed the importance of staying composed and sticking to their strategy.

“We now know we are facing Nigeria, and for us, it’s just about being ready mentally, physically and tactically. We respect them, but we don’t fear anyone. We know what we are capable of as a team.”

The Copper Queens skipper drew confidence from their previous success over Nigeria but was also quick to underline the need for renewed focus.

“It’s not a new feeling. We have faced them before and came out with a positive result. That gives us belief, but we also know this is a new game and a new challenge. We need to show up with the same discipline, energy and focus we had against DR Congo and even more.”

Banda also heaped praise on young players like Mercy Chipasula and Fridah Mukoma, who have seamlessly slotted into the senior setup.

“It’s good looking at how the young stars are coming up and how they are coordinating with the team. We have to keep encouraging them because they are our future Zambian stars. I am happy with their performance because they are adding something to the team.”

Her final message was to the ever-passionate Zambian supporters.

“To the fans, keep on supporting and watch out for the Copper Queens in the quarterfinals. Zambia ku chalo.”