Copper Queens prepares for Malawi four nations tournament, as Chipolopolo gear up for friendlies against S’Africa, Angola

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has announced that the Copper Queens will participate in the Malawi Invitational Four Nations Tournament from November 29 to December 2, 2025, in Lilongwe.

FAZ has also confirmed two high-profile FIFA international friendly matches for the Chipolopolo against World Cup-bound South Africa and 2025 AFCON participants Angola.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Thursday, FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shepande said the securing of international friendly matches for all national teams was consistent with the vision of the Keith Mweemba-led administration.

“The WAFCON-bound Zambia Women’s National Team will take part in the Four Nations Tournament in Malawi where they will have their launch of preparations for the tournament,” Shepande said.

He noted that the calibre of opposition was “top notch,” with South Africa and Malawi part of the cast for the Morocco 2026 WAFCON, while Zimbabwe has always remained among the region’s strongest sides.

Shepande further stated that the Chipolopolo were departing for South Africa on Thursday, where they would face the Bafana Bafana, before proceeding to Luanda for the second friendly against the Palancas Negras of Angola.

“All is set for the two high-profile friendly matches, with Zambia playing South Africa and Angola on November 15 and 18, respectively. We have opted to play Angola instead of Burundi for technical reasons,” he said.

Shepande added that FAZ had ensured a balance regarding player availability for continental campaigners Zesco United and Power Dynamos.

“Being mindful of the monumental assignments for our continental envoys, we have excused Power Dynamos players from the South Africa game, while Zesco United will have their players exempted from the second international friendly match,” he said.

He also wished the Under-17 Men’s National Team the best of luck in their round of 32 match against Mali on Friday.

“We are proud of what our Under-17 boys have achieved so far on their debut World Cup appearance, but we implore them to take their hunger and motivation higher in their forthcoming engagement against Mali,” he said.

The Under-17 boys advanced to the knockout stage after defeating Indonesia 3-1, thumping Honduras 5-2, and drawing 1-1 with Brazil in the group stage.

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