Copper Queens hold hosts Morocco in thrilling WAfCON opener

The Copper Queens on Saturday opened their TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAfCON) 2024 campaign with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against hosts Morocco in a pulsating encounter played before a packed stadium.

Zambia made a dream start, with captain and talisman Barbra Banda firing the visitors ahead barely two minutes after kickoff, silencing the home crowd and underlining her reputation as one of the continent’s most feared forwards.

But the hosts quickly responded. In the 11th minute, Moroccan forward Najat Badri was brought down in the box by Grace Chanda, prompting referee Shamirah Nabadda to consult VAR before awarding a penalty. Ibtissam Jraidi made no mistake from the spot, levelling the score in the 12th minute.

Undeterred, the Copper Queens maintained their attacking intent and were rewarded just before halftime.

In the 44th minute, Racheal Kundananji restored Zambia’s lead with a clinical finish from a Barbra Banda assist, sending the visitors into the break with a 2-1 advantage.

The second half was an evenly contested affair, with both sides battling for control.

Barbra Banda nearly extended Zambia’s lead in the 56th minute, but her powerful effort was well saved by Moroccan goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi.

Midway through the half, Zambia’s Prisca Chilufya was shown a yellow card for a foul on Fatima Tagnaout, before being substituted for Fridah Mukoma in the 66th minute to bolster the midfield.

As the clock ticked down, Morocco intensified their search for an equaliser and finally broke through in the 88th minute, when captain Ghizlane Chebbak struck to make it 2-2, denying Zambia a famous away victory.

Despite the late setback, the Copper Queens produced an encouraging performance, with Barbra Banda deservedly named Player of the Match for her influential display.

The Zambian side will now turn their attention to their next fixture as they continue their quest for continental glory.

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