Brazil Test Awaits Zambia As Copper Queens Begin WAFCON Preparations

Brazil Test Awaits Zambia As Copper Queens Begin WAFCON Preparations

By Niyi Busari 

The Zambia Women's National Football Team have departed for Cuiabá, Brazil, to participate in the upcoming FIFA Women's Series scheduled to take place from April 11 to 18, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Assistant coach Charles Haluboono is travelling with the home-based contingent, while foreign-based players are expected to link up with the squad upon arrival.

The team departed on a South African Airways flight via Johannesburg, with a connecting journey through São Paulo before proceeding to Cuiabá, one of the host cities for the tournament.

Zambia will face a challenging lineup of opponents, including Canada women's national soccer team, Brazil women's national football team, and South Korea women's national football team.

The tournament forms a key part of Zambia’s preparations for the forthcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations, as the Copper Queens continue to fine-tune their squad ahead of the continental competition.

However, the team will be without several key players due to injury setbacks. Racheal Kundananji, who plays for Bay FC, has been ruled out alongside Eneless Phiri and Avell Chitundu of Zesco United, as well as Xiomara Mapepa of Altaraji.

In addition, Evarine Katongo will miss the trip due to the ongoing security situation in Israel, further reducing the squad options available to the technical crew.

Despite these absences, Zambia will be aiming to make a strong impression in Brazil as they build momentum ahead of their next major international assignment.