Barbra Banda Relishes Return as Copper Queens Gear Up for Botswana Clash and WAFCON Preparation

Zambia Women’s National Team captain Barbra Banda has shared her excitement and determination as the Copper Queens prepare for Saturday’s international friendly against Botswana in the ongoing three-nation tournament in South Africa. Speaking to FAZ Media, Banda reflected on her return to the squad and the significance of the upcoming fixtures.

“Honestly, it’s a good feeling being back with the team,” she told FAZ Media. “What’s important is that we always appreciate the opportunity to represent our country and Africa at large. It’s exciting, especially knowing we’re making history each time we step on the pitch.”

Zambia will face both Botswana and hosts South Africa, two sides Banda says present strong competition. She stressed that these matches are vital for Zambia’s build-up to the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

“I would say it’s going to be a very tight game,” Banda said. “Every team now has improved, and Botswana is a very good side. These friendlies are important for us, they’re a hint at the level we’ll face and great preparation for WAFCON.”

Facing South Africa, the reigning WAFCON champions, is another challenge Banda is eager to embrace.

“It always feels great to play the best,” she said. “They won the last WAFCON, and I always want to learn from the best. These games will help us see where we stand and prepare adequately.”

With the Copper Queens drawn in a competitive group with Morroco, DR. Congo and Senegal, Banda urged her teammates to stay focused and united as they begin their campaign.

“Preparation starts now. We have to take every game seriously because every team is strong. We must keep encouraging each other, keep pushing, and fight together as one, as one team, as the Copper Queens,” she concluded.

Zambia will take on Botswana this Saturday in a fixture that promises to be a valuable test ahead of their WAFCON journey.