Zambia Beats DR Congo: Zambia’s Copper Queens are through to the quarterfinals of WAFCON 2024, finishing second in Group A after a narrow 1-0 win over DR Congo on Saturday evening. The only goal of the match came from Racheal Kundananji, whose first-half strike was enough to seal all three points.
The win brought Zambia level on seven points with hosts Morocco, but it’s the North Africans who top the group on goal difference, thanks to their superior +2 compared to Zambia’s +1.
Kundananji Delivers, Zambia Gets the Job Done
It was a fully flashy game with DR Congo showing what they are made of, giving a hard time to the Copper Queens, but it was efficient, just what coach Nora Häuptle would have wanted. Zambia stayed compact, limited DR Congo’s space in the final third, and held on to the one real chance that came their way.
Kundananji, who has been clinical throughout the group stage, struck with confidence in the first half to give Zambia the lead. From there, the Copper Queens defended well, with Barbra Banda once again putting in a tireless shift up front and tracking back when needed. And of course, Lushomo anchoring the defense and Lungu struggling into the picture.
Group A Final Standings
| Team | P | W | D | L | GF–GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morocco | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 7–4 | +3 | 7 |
| Zambia | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 6–4 | +2 | 7 |
| Senegal | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5–3 | +2 | 4 |
| DR Congo | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2–9 | -7 | 0 |
Zambia had earlier drawn 2-2 with Morocco in the tournament opener and then edged Senegal 3-2 in a thriller. Their total of seven points is a strong return, and finishing second avoids a possible quarterfinal clash with the most in-form group winners.
Morocco Show Control Against Senegal
While Zambia was seeing off DR Congo, Morocco held their nerve against Senegal. They won 1-0 in Rabat to wrap up top spot in Group A. Senegal, despite starting strong in the tournament with a 4-0 win over DR Congo, finished third with four points and will have to wait and see if that’s enough to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
What’s Next for Zambia?
Zambia now heads into the next round with momentum and belief. Under Häuptle’s leadership, the team has found a balance between defensive discipline and attacking intent. With Barbra Banda leading the line and Kundananji finishing chances, the Copper Queens are showing signs of a side ready to go the distance.
The road gets tougher from here, but Zambia has already shown they’re not just here to participate—they’re here to compete.
