Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu has reminded the Copper Queens that their rise in international football has made them the team every opponent wants to defeat, especially because of the star power of Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji.
Addressing Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda when she paid a courtesy call on the minister yesterday, Nkandu explained that Zambia’s impressive progress on the global stage means that rivals now approach matches against the Copper Queens with extra determination.
“Everyone wants to beat Zambia, especially knowing we have two of the world’s most valuable female players,” Nkandu told Barbra at his office.
The Copper Queens’ WAfCON campaign ended with a heavy 5-0 quarterfinal defeat to Nigeria’s Super Falcons in Casablanca last Friday, a result that exposed gaps in Zambia’s game despite their strong group-stage performance.
Nkandu said while the defeat was painful, it should be treated as a learning curve and a motivation to work harder.
The minister urged the team to regroup and focus on future tournaments, including the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers scheduled for October.
He further revealed that government remains committed to supporting the Queens with resources and technical backing to ensure continued growth.
Speaking on behalf of the players, Copper Queens captain Barbra thanked the government and Zambians for their support throughout the tournament.
She assured fans that the team remains focused on improving and making the country proud in future competitions.
By George Musonda
Kalemba July 24, 2025
