WE ARE TAKING THE 3-NATIONS TOURNAMENT SERIOUSLY – KUNDANANJI

27.11.2025 | Football DNA

Copper Queens star striker Racheal Kundananji says the team is fully focused on using the upcoming 3-Nations Tournament as a crucial platform to build a strong and competitive squad ahead of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Kundananji emphasised that the tournament will give the technical bench an opportunity to assess both new and returning players as they work toward forming a formidable team for next year’s continental showdown.

“This tournament is important because it will be used to check every player and see how ready they are to be in the team,” she said. “It will help us assess our fitness levels and build a strong squad for WAFCON.”

The Bay FC forward also highlighted the importance of team bonding, noting that the blend of youth and experience will be key going forward. She applauded the coaching staff for introducing younger players from the junior ranks and reintegrating those returning to the fold.

Kundananji further encouraged the new call-ups to step up and challenge the senior players, saying competition for places will only strengthen the team.

“Every player needs to push. This is the time to show the coaches who deserves a place,” she added.

Looking Ahead to Malawi Clash

Kundananji acknowledged that the match against Malawi will not be an easy one, stressing that both teams are using the tournament as preparation for WAFCON.

“Our opponents are not pushovers,” she noted. “Even though it’s a friendly, we must take it seriously. Both teams are fighting for places, so we have to stay focused and give it our best.”

About the 3-Nations Tournament

The tournament features hosts Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Both Zambia and Malawi have already qualified for WAFCON, making this competition an important part of their preparations.

Zambia’s 26-Member Squad for the 3-Nations Tournament

GOALKEEPERS

Chishala Mfunte (Green Buffaloes)

Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows)

Hazel Nali (Zesco Ndola Girls)

DEFENDERS

Margaret Belemu (Red Arrows)

Memory Nthala (Green Buffaloes)

Rachael Nachula (Green Buffaloes)

Magaret Gondwe (Green Buffaloes)

Blessing Maluba (Nchanga Queens)

Martha Tembo (Hakkarigucu – Turkey)

Lushomo Mweemba (Hakkarigucu – Turkey)

Judith Soko (Zesco Ndola Girls)

MIDFIELDERS

Susan Banda (Cekemekoy – Turkey)

Grace Chanda (Orlando Pride – USA)

Avell Chitundu (Zesco Ndola Girls)

Evarine Katongo (Green Buffaloes)

Natasha Nanyangwe (Green Buffaloes)

Ireen Lungu (Sichun – China)

Mary Wilombe (Red Arrows)

FORWARDS

Regina Chanda (Zanaco)

Maweta Chilenga (Green Buffaloes)

Prisca Chilufya (Angel City – USA)

Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa)

Rachael Kundananji (Bay FC)

Penelope Mulubwa (Zesco Ndola Girls)

Eneles Phiri (Zesco Ndola Girls)

Mupopo Kabange (Henan WFC – China)