Copper Queens depart for China ahead of Yongchuan international tournament

The Zambia women’s national football team has left for China to compete in the 2025 Yongchuan International Tournament, scheduled for April 5-8 in Chongqing.

A 14-member contingent of locally-based players departed Kenneth Kaunda International Airport at 15:25 aboard Qatar Airways.

They would link up with 10 foreign-based teammates upon arrival in China.

Led by coach Nora Häuptle, Zambia would participate in the four-nation tournament alongside hosts China PR, Uzbekistan, and Thailand.

According to the Football Association of Zambia, the Copper Queens are expected to open their campaign against Thailand on April 5, with a victory securing them a place in the final on April 8 against either China PR or Uzbekistan.

The tournament serves as crucial preparation for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON)—set for July 2025 in Morocco—and provides Häuptle with an opportunity to assess her squad against strong opposition.

Copper Queens 24-Member Squad

Goalkeepers:

• Mwila Chishala Mufunte (Green Buffaloes)
• ⁠Catherine Musonda (Red Arrows)
• ⁠Eunice Sakala (Indeni Roses)

Defenders:

• Margaret Belemu (Red Arrows)
• ⁠Jackline Chomba (ZISD Women)
• ⁠Blessing Mapalo Maluba (Nchanga Queens)
• ⁠Matildah Mukunda (Elite Ladies)
• ⁠Lushomo Mweemba (Hakkarigucu-Turkey)
• ⁠Martha Tembo (Hakkarigucu-Turkey)
• ⁠Esther Siamfuko (Green Buffaloes)
• ⁠Judith Soko (ZESCO Ndola Girls)
• ⁠Pauline Zulu (Zanaco Ladies)

Midfielders:

• Grace Chanda (Orlando Pride-USA)
• ⁠Prisca Chilufya (Orlando Pride-USA)
• ⁠Rhoda Chileshe (Indeni Roses)
• ⁠Evarine Susan Katongo (Green Buffaloes)
• ⁠Natasha Nanyangwe (Green Buffaloes)
• ⁠Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Blue Eagles)
• ⁠Ireen Lungu (Sichuan-China)
• ⁠Racheal Nachula (Hapoel Jerusalem-Israel)

Forwards:

• Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride-USA)
• ⁠Racheal Kundananji (Bay FC-USA)
• ⁠Kabange Mupopo (Henan Jianye-China)
• ⁠Fridah Mukoma (Beijing Jingstan FC-China)

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