The draw for 2025 FIFA U‑17 Women's World Cup placed Zambia U‑17 women in Group F alongside Paraguay, Japan and New Zealand, with the opening match set for 19 October 2025.
Background: Zambia’s rise in youth women’s football
Less than a decade ago, the Copper Princesses were an unknown side on the African stage. Today, thanks to steady investment from the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) and a clear development pathway, they have become the first Zambian youth women’s team to qualify for back‑to‑back World Cups – the 2022 edition in India and now the 2025 tournament in Morocco.
The shift began when FAZ rolled out a national girls’ academy program in 2018, targeting talent in copper‑rich provinces. By 2022, those academies had produced a core of players who could compete against the continent’s best.
Qualification journey: From Ndola to Benin
Under the stewardship of Carol Kanyemba, head coach of the Zambia Under‑17 Women’s National Team, the Copper Princesses navigated a gruelling CAF qualifying campaign.
The second‑round tie against Tanzania took place at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. A tight 1‑0 win – courtesy of defender Natasha Nkaka’s 53rd‑minute header – gave Zambia a 4‑0 aggregate advantage and set up a showdown with Benin.
In the final qualifying round, the girls produced a 2‑1 victory over Benin on a rainy evening (date still being finalised by CAF). The win sealed Zambia’s spot among the 16 nations headed to Morocco and marked a historic moment: the nation now boasts consecutive U‑17 World Cup appearances.
Group F draw: Tough opponents await
Group F is a mini‑World Cup in itself. Paraguay, a South American side that surprised many with a recent U‑17 South American Championship run, brings a physical style. Japan, perennial Asian powerhouses with a reputation for technical finesse, are seen as tournament favourites. New Zealand, the Oceania champions, combine athleticism with a growing tactical sophistication.
"We have a video analyst who is specialised in bringing footage for our opponents. So we have been observing both Congo and Benin," Coach Kanyemba told reporters after the Tanzania win at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. "But we’ll be able to know opponents after the final results. We have some footage for both teams so we know the kind of opponents that we’re going to face and the girls already, because football is about challenges."
The Copper Princesses’ tactical plan hinges on a compact defensive shape and rapid counter‑attacks, mirroring the style that saw them out‑maneuver Benin.
Preparation friendlies: Canada, Colombia and Cameroon on the agenda
FAZ has scheduled three high‑profile friendlies in early October 2025 to sharpen the squad:
- Wednesday, 9 October – Cameroon U‑17 Women (regional rival)
- Saturday, 12 October – Canada U‑17 Women (North American powerhouse)
- Monday, 14 October – Colombia U‑17 Women (South American technique)
All matches will be played in neutral venues within Morocco, allowing the girls to acclimatise to the climate and pitch conditions ahead of the tournament.
“If you want to make it and be good in life, you need to beat the best and set records so our girls are motivated and are very ready to meet whoever is on the way,” said Kanyemba during a press conference. “These friendlies give us the edge we need.”
Impact on Zambian women's football: More than a tournament
Beyond the immediate excitement of world‑stage competition, qualification is a catalyst for grassroots development. Local clubs report a surge in girls’ enrolment, with some schools adding dedicated football periods to their curricula.
FAZ President Raven Mwape (not to be confused with the coach) recently noted that sponsorship interest has risen by roughly 45 % since the Copper Princesses secured their first World Cup berth in 2022.
Internationally, the success places Zambia among an elite group of African nations – alongside Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon and Nigeria – that have consistently produced competitive youth women’s sides. The exposure also opens pathways for Zambian players to earn scholarships in Europe and North America.
Looking ahead: What comes after the group stage?
If the Copper Princesses can pull off an upset against either Paraguay or New Zealand, they will likely face a quarter‑final clash with a top‑seeded side from Group C or D. Analysts from African Football Review suggest that a disciplined defensive display could see Zambia through to the knockout round – a historic first for any Zambian youth women’s team.
Meanwhile, back home in Lusaka, fans are already planning watch parties. The national anthem will echo through stadiums and homes alike, as the Copper Princesses carry not just a ball but a nation’s hope for a brighter football future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Group F draw affect Zambia’s chances of advancing?
Group F pits Zambia against three strong opponents – Paraguay, Japan and New Zealand. While Japan is the clear favourite, a well‑executed defensive plan could see Zambia snatch points against Paraguay or New Zealand, keeping knockout hopes alive. The key will be capitalising on set‑pieces and the momentum from the preparatory friendlies.
What are the dates and venues for Zambia’s friendly matches?
FAZ arranged three friendlies in Morocco: Cameroon on 9 October, Canada on 12 October and Colombia on 14 October 2025. The exact stadiums are still being finalised, but all will be in venues that mirror the conditions expected for the World Cup group matches.
Who are the key players to watch from the Copper Princesses?
Defender Natasha Nkaka, who scored the decisive goal against Tanzania, leads a solid backline. Midfielder Grace Lungu commands possession, while forward Emily Phiri provides pace and finishing ability. Their chemistry will be crucial against technically adept teams like Japan.
What does this qualification mean for women's football in Zambia?
Back‑to‑back World Cup spots boost the sport’s profile, attract sponsors, and inspire young girls nationwide. Schools report higher enrollment in football programs, and clubs anticipate increased funding to nurture talent, potentially creating a pipeline to senior national teams and overseas opportunities.
When and where is Zambia’s first group‑stage match?
The Copper Princesses open Group F against Paraguay on Sunday, 19 October 2025. The match will be staged at one of Morocco’s designated youth venues – the exact stadium is yet to be announced by FIFA.
1 Comments
Nath FORGEAU October 11 2025
zambia girls pulling off big moves in world cup draw apparently