The Zambia Women National Team has departed for Cuiabá, Brazil, where they are set to compete in the upcoming FIFA Series tournament scheduled to take place from 11 to 18 April.
The squad left earlier today aboard South African Airlines, beginning their journey with a flight to Johannesburg. From there, they are expected to connect to São Paulo before completing the final leg of their trip to Cuiabá, the host city for the tournament.
Assistant coach Charles Haluboono is travelling with the locally based players, forming the initial contingent of the team. The foreign-based players are expected to link up with the squad later in Brazil ahead of the competition.
Zambia will face a strong lineup of opponents during the tournament, including Canada, Brazil and South Korea. The matches are expected to provide a significant test for the team as they prepare for future international competitions.
The tournament forms part of Zambia’s broader preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The technical bench is expected to use the opportunity to assess player readiness and build cohesion within the squad against high-level opposition.
However, the team will be without several key players due to various circumstances. Bay FC forward Racheal Kundananji has been ruled out through injury, alongside Eneless Phiri and Avell Chitundu, both of Zesco United, as well as Xiomara Mapepa of Altaraji.
In addition, Evarine Katongo will not be travelling with the team due to the ongoing war situation in Israel, which has affected her availability for selection.
Despite these absences, the squad is expected to make the most of the international exposure offered by the FIFA Series. The competition presents an opportunity for Zambia to test their depth and adaptability, particularly with a mix of locally based players travelling first and foreign-based players joining later.
The Copper Queens have continued to establish themselves on the international stage in recent years, and participation in tournaments such as this is seen as vital in maintaining competitive momentum.
With challenging fixtures ahead, the team’s performance in Brazil will likely provide valuable insight into their readiness for the continental tournament later this year.
