Zambia U17 Aim for Back-to-Back World Cup Spots

Zambia U17 Women’s National Team coach Carol Kanyemba says her side is ready to fight for a second consecutive FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualification when they take on Benin in the return leg of the final qualifier this Saturday in Lomé, Togo.

Zambia heads into the match with a narrow 2-1 lead from the first leg played in Ndola. Despite the advantage, Kanyemba acknowledges the pressure on her squad to deliver once again, especially after their historic appearance at the previous tournament.

“There’s a lot of expectation from fans and the team itself,” she said. “We’ve focused on improving our finishing and reminded the girls to stay confident and make smart decisions.”

Although the match is being held on neutral ground, Kanyemba admits Benin could benefit from being closer to home and will be eager to make history with their first-ever World Cup appearance. Still, she believes her team has prepared well, both tactically and mentally.

“We need to avoid conceding and be more clinical in front of goal,” Kanyemba added. “The away goal we gave up in Ndola makes this match even more critical.”

The coach also emphasized the importance of game management and using substitutions wisely to shift momentum when needed.

Beyond Saturday’s result, Kanyemba believes back-to-back World Cup appearances would be a major boost for women’s football in Zambia. She pointed to the example of captain Mercy Chipasula, who has since moved up to the senior Copper Queens and is now making headlines on the international stage.

“Seeing Mercy’s growth shows young girls across the country that hard work and dedication can take you to the top,” she said. “That’s what this journey is about—hope, belief, and opportunity.”