Young Copper Queens Set for UEFA Friendship Cup

19.03.2025 | Football DNA

The Zambia U20 Women’s National Team, fondly known as the Young Copper Queens, is set to compete in the 2025 UEFA Friendship Cup in Turkey from 31 March to 10 April. Head coach Florence Mwila has unveiled a 26-member provisional squad, blending U17 graduates and U20 players within the U18 age category. The final squad will consist of 20 players.

A Blend of Experience and Emerging Talent

Coach Mwila, assisted by Charity Nthala and goalkeeper coach Sarah Chungu, has strategically selected a squad that showcases the nation’s young talent. Notable inclusions are current U17 stars Natasha Nkaka, Lweendo Hanongo, and Masela Sekeseke, who played a pivotal role in Zambia’s progression to the final round of the U17 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

Tough Group Stage Draw

Zambia has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Turkey, Colombia, and Thailand. Group B features Tanzania, Finland, Lebanon, and Jamaica. As one of only two teams from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) invited to this prestigious event, Zambia, alongside Tanzania, will represent the continent on this global stage.

UEFA’s Vision for Youth Development

The UEFA Friendship Cup aims to foster international football experience for young female players. Hosted at the Turkish Football Federation’s national training centre in Riva, near Istanbul, this tournament offers a unique platform for teams from different confederations to engage, learn, and compete. The initiative seeks to promote cross-cultural football experiences, tactical exchanges, and global networking opportunities.

A Crucial Learning Opportunity

Participation in this competition presents an invaluable opportunity for Zambia’s technical staff and players to develop their skills, gain exposure to diverse playing styles, and broaden their footballing perspectives. The Young Copper Queens will have a chance to showcase their talent on an international platform, further strengthening the country’s presence in women’s football.

Zambia’s 26-Member Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers:Cynthia Mushili (Nchanga Queens), Margaret Phiri (Elite Ladies), Lucy Ndebe (Marvellous Girls)

Defenders:Margaret Gondwe (Green Buffaloes), Saliya Mwanza (Elite Ladies), Chimwemwe Banda (Football Chance Foundation), Natasha Nkaka (Choma Warriors), Mwaziona Sakala (Chipata Girls), Fridah Mbao (Pataaki), Dorcas Kupanda (Kansanshi Dynamos), Lweendo Hanongo (Driven Queens), Esther Musialela (ZANACO Ladies)

Midfielders:Eunice Bwalya, Harriet Matipa (both YASA Queens), Zangose Blessings Zulu (Pataaki), Tricia Mabamba, Brenda Mwewa (both Nchanga Queens), Mapalo Lumya (Nkana Queens), Mary Mukupa (Red Arrows)

Strikers:Bwalya Namute Chileshe (Green Buffaloes), Ruth Muwowo (Amazing Grace), Gift Chilwizhi (Kamfinsa Blue Eagles), Theresa Nayame (Ntindi Shining Stars), Masela Sekeseke (Red Arrows), Judith Phiri (FC MUZA), Ireen Mweemba (Marvellous Girls)

Eyes on the Prize

With the squad assembled and preparations underway, the Young Copper Queens will be aiming to make a strong impression at the UEFA Friendship Cup. Their participation underscores Zambia’s growing presence in international women’s football and highlights the country’s commitment to nurturing young talent. Football fans across the nation eagerly await their performance as they take on the world’s emerging football powerhouses.