The Zambia Women’s National Team begin their 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign this evening with a Group C clash against Egypt in Rabat, Morocco.
The Copper Queens head into the tournament among the favourites after establishing themselves as one of Africa’s leading women’s teams over the past few years, thanks to impressive performances on both the continental and global stage. The expanded 16-team tournament runs from 26 July to 16 August and also serves as a pathway to qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Zambia booked their place at WAFCON in convincing fashion during the qualifiers. The Copper Queens defeated neighbours Namibia 7-2 on aggregate in the second qualifying round, producing two dominant displays that showcased the attacking quality of stars Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji. The qualification campaign reinforced Zambia’s reputation as one of Africa’s most dangerous attacking sides and raised expectations of another deep run at the continental showpiece.
Egypt’s route to Morocco was less straightforward. The Pharaohs eliminated Rwanda 3-2 on aggregate in the first qualifying round but failed to progress from the second round. However, CAF’s decision to expand WAFCON from 12 to 16 teams opened the door for four additional nations. Egypt secured one of those places through the repechage based on their FIFA Women’s World Ranking, earning another opportunity to compete on the biggest stage in African women’s football.
Group C promises to be one of the toughest at the tournament, with Zambia joined by defending champions Nigeria, debutants Malawi and Egypt. Every point will be vital, as only the top two teams are guaranteed a place in the quarter-finals.
Group C Fixtures
Matchday 1 – Monday, 28 July
- Zambia vs Egypt – 18:00
- Nigeria vs Malawi – 21:00
Matchday 2 – Thursday, 31 July
- Egypt vs Nigeria
- Malawi vs Zambia
Matchday 3 – Sunday, 3 August
- Zambia vs Nigeria
- Malawi vs Egypt
The opening fixture against Egypt presents Zambia with an excellent opportunity to begin the tournament on a positive note before two much tougher encounters against Malawi and continental giants Nigeria. With Banda and Kundananji expected to lead the attack, the Copper Queens possess the firepower to make an immediate statement.
Beyond today’s contest, Zambia will be aiming to improve on previous WAFCON performances and challenge for a maiden continental title. A winning start would not only boost confidence but also put Norah Häuptle’s side in a strong position as they pursue a place in the knockout stages of Africa’s premier women’s football competition.
