Copper Queens first to qualify for 2026 women’s CAF AFCON cup, beat Namibia 7-2 on aggregate

Zambia’s Shepolopolo have become the first women’s team to secure qualification for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2026, after an emphatic 7–2 aggregate win over Namibia.

The Copper Queens sealed their spot with a 4–2 victory in the first leg and a commanding 3–0 triumph in the return match, underscoring their growing dominance and signalling they will be a formidable side to watch on the continent.

Quarter-finalists at the last edition, Zambia built on that experience to forge a balanced and resilient unit capable of thriving under pressure on big occasions.

Even in the absence of star forward Barbra Banda, coach Nora Hauptle’s squad found answers through the dynamic front pairing of Rachael Kundananji and Rachel Nachula, who delivered most of the goals and displayed a sharp understanding in attack.

Against Namibia, the duo embodied the creativity and cutting edge of a Zambian side ready to challenge Africa’s best.

The two-legged tie reflected a complete performance: an end-to-end opening leg where Zambia imposed their attacking flair, followed by a tactically disciplined second leg marked by calm, clinical finishing.

Zambia opened the scoring in the 21st minute through Rachael Kundananji, who converted from a Grace Chanda corner, before Eneles Phiri doubled the lead in the 32nd minute. Prisca Chilufya added the third in the 47th minute to complete the 3–0 victory.

President Hakainde Hichilema has since congratulated the team for their achievement.

He wrote on his Facebook page:
“Congratulations to the Zambia Women National Team for qualifying for the Morocco 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations after beating Namibia 3-0 on the day and 7-2 on aggregate. Congratulations to FAZ, technical bench, players and fans for this victory.”

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