Saliya Mwanza Drafted into U-20 Women’s National Team Camp

Promising midfielder Saliya Mwanza, has joined the Zambia Under-20 women’s national team camp ahead of Saturday’s crucial second leg against Burundi at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

Mwanza’s inclusion comes after initially being left out of the U-20 setup, despite her recent call-up to the Copper Queens squad preparing for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Namibia. Since Monday, the 19-year-old had been training as a left-back under the guidance of senior national team coach Nora Hauptle, before being drafted into the junior side to bolster their ranks.

Her arrival is expected to add depth to the U-20 squad, who already carry a 2-1 advantage from the first leg in Bujumbura. The winner of the tie will face Uganda in the next qualifying round.

Mwanza’s rising reputation has been reinforced by her achievements: back-to-back COSAFA Player of the Tournament (2024 and 2025) and her current form as joint top scorer for Elite Ladies FC in the Women’s Super League with two goals and an assist.