Copper Queens line up Senegal friendly as WAFCON 2026 preparations intensify

By Betty Enoch 
 
 
 
The Copper Queens have stepped up preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a high-profile international friendly against Senegal women's national football team, as the road to continental glory gathers pace.

Zambia’s Sports Minister, Elvis Nkandu, confirmed in an interview with Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation that the fixture is part of a deliberate plan to sharpen the squad ahead of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.

The friendly is expected to provide a crucial test for the Copper Queens as they fine-tune tactics and build cohesion before facing Africa’s elite. 

With the stakes higher than ever, the tournament carries added significance, the semi-finalists will secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

In a key logistical update, Nkandu revealed a change in the team’s camping plans. Originally scheduled to camp in Dubai, the Copper Queens will now head straight to Morocco well ahead of the tournament.

The early arrival will allow the team to acclimatize and engage in additional friendly matches designed to boost match fitness and tactical sharpness.

The Minister also moved swiftly to silence speculation circulating on social media regarding changes to the technical bench. 

He emphasized that there has been no shake-up, confirming that Head Coach Nora Häuptle remains firmly in charge and will lead the team into battle at WAFCON.

With preparations intensifying and confidence steady within the camp, the Copper Queens appear determined to build on their recent continental success and take another bold step toward global qualification.

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