The 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) got off to a cracking start as Zambia’s Copper Queens played out a thrilling 2–2 draw against host nation Morocco at the Rabat Olympic Stadium.
Banda Strikes in 60 Seconds
Zambia wasted no time announcing their presence. Star striker Barbara Banda found the net in under a minute, catching Morocco cold with a blistering opener. The Queens kept pressing, and in the 27th minute, Racheal Kundananji doubled the lead with a cool finish that sent Zambian fans into a promising dreamland.
Morocco’s Comeback
But the Atlas Lionesses were not about to be silenced on home soil. Waves of pressure coiled into a fruitful result. A controversial penalty brought them back into the game before halftime, and in the dying minutes, Moroccan captain Ghizlan Chebbak found the equalizer that rescued a point for the hosts.
Player Highlights
- Barbara Banda was electric—pace, power, and that clinical finish right from kickoff.
- Ghizlan Chebbak showed composure and leadership when it mattered most, proving why she’s the heartbeat of this Moroccan side.
Tactical Talk
Zambia’s early dominance came from aggressive pressing and quick transitions, but Morocco adjusted well in the second half. Zambia’s defense was eventually stretched, and set-piece pressure from the hosts paid off late in the game.
Both teams walk away with a point, but Zambia will feel they let a win slip away. They now turn their attention to fixtures against Senegal and DR Congo. A strong performance against Senegal will be crucial if the Copper Queens are to top the group.
This draw sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting WAFCON tournament.
