ZAMBIA’S 2026 WAFCON TITLE BID: The Elephant In The Room … Addressing The Barbra Banda & Racheal Kundananji Conundrum From time to time, I would agree with Elite Ladies FC owner Oliver Shalala’s views on Zambian women football. Unfortunately, we both belong to the Threatre of Dreams crew in Zambia, but that’s a topic for another day. Today, my memory is jolted by the comments he made after the Copper Queens were humiliated 5-0 by Nigeria in the quarterfinal of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Oliver didn’t name names, but those who are keen followers of the Zambian game knew what he was talking about – the Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji conundrum. Not a direct quote, Oliver said something like until we accept that one of the biggest problem in the Copper Queens is the subtle yet volatile combination between Barbra & Kundananji,positive results will be far fetched – it’s by happenstance that it sometimes works. Although Oliver didn’t name the players he was talking about, it was evident to those who keenly follow Zambian women’s soccer what he was talking about.
Less than 50 days before the tournament, I want to touch on this issue so that we all move in tandem and ensure the Copper Queens’ ultimate goal is solely fixed on the title. In the history of Zambian women’s soccer, we have never produced such a talented team. Granted, there are a few departments that must be strengthened.
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But it’s safe to say, this is our Golden Generation in women’s football. So winning the WAFCON & going to the FIFA 2027 World Cup as well as making a strong statement at the Loss Angeles 2028 Olympics should be the target. Beyond these three competitions, the Golden Generation will have completed its life cycle and begin responding to its disintegration.
So, let’s not take chances. It’s now or never. And it’s good the team is already in camp.
Having discussed with a lot of people, it’s important that coach Nora Hauptle takes the bull by its horn. She, too, must not allow the elephant in the room to morph into a barrier that will hamper development. If it means benching either Barbra or Kundananji in the interest of the team – this must happen. If their chemistry does not seem to properly coordinate on a given game, Nora must be bold to make decisions and substitute either of them.
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