We have a improved a lot – Bruce Mwape

16.04.2024 | Football in my DNA

The successive qualification according to Mwape is a sign that Zambian women’s football is improving, as they have now qualified for all major competitions, including a podium finish at the last TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations where they came third after edging Nigeria 1-0.

“It means a lot to me because this will be a back-to-back participation in the Olympics. To me its good and the way we have improved from the time I started coaching this team, we have managed to go to all major tournaments. We have been to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, the Olympics and even the World Cup so it is actually a bonus to me that we are going there again in succession”, said Mwape.

“This is a huge plus for women’s football in Zambia and shows tremendous growth in our game”, added the coach.

The Zambian Women’s national football team, affectionately known as the Copper Queens, has achieved a remarkable milestone under the guidance of coach Bruce Mwape. Their recent qualification for the successive Olympic Games reflects not only their resilience but also the significant progress of women's football in Zambia.

In a thrilling turnaround, the Copper Queens managed to secure their Olympic ticket by defeating Morocco 2-0 away from home, overturning a 2-1 loss in the first leg. This victory underscores the team's determination and spirit, showcasing their ability to bounce back from adversity.

Coach Bruce Mwape emphasizes the importance of this achievement, noting that it marks back-to-back participation in the Olympics. He attributes the team's success to their continuous improvement and participation in major tournaments, including the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. This consistent presence on the global stage reflects the growth and development of women's football in Zambia.

Drawing parallels to their podium finish in the last Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where they clinched third place after defeating Nigeria, Mwape highlights the significance of their Olympic qualification. He expresses his pride in the team's progress and sees it as a testament to the rising stature of women's football in Zambia.

Looking ahead, the Copper Queens face a daunting challenge as they enter Group B of the Olympic Women’s Football Tournament, alongside powerhouse teams like the USA, Germany, and Australia. Despite the tough competition, Mwape remains optimistic and believes that the experience gained from competing against top-tier teams will further enhance the team's development.

Zambia's qualification also cements their status as joint representatives of Africa in Paris, alongside Nigeria. Both teams will carry the hopes of the continent as they strive for success on the international stage.

As the Olympic Games approach, all eyes will be on the Copper Queens as they prepare to face formidable opponents. Their journey not only signifies their own accomplishments but also symbolizes the growing prominence of women's football in Zambia and across the African continent.

Olympics Women’s Football Tournament Groups:

GROUP A: France, Colombia, Canada, New Zealand

GROUP B: USA, Zambia, Germany, Australia

GROUP C: Spain, Japan, Nigeria, Brazil