Barbra Banda delivered a captain’s masterclass, scoring four goals as Zambia thrashed Egypt 6-0 to record their biggest-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) victory. Here is how the Copper Queens performed in their Group C opener.
Goalkeeper
Hazel Nali – 7/10
Had a relatively quiet evening but remained alert whenever called upon. Dealt comfortably with the few threats Egypt created and kept a deserved clean sheet.
Defenders
Margret Belemu – 8/10
Outstanding throughout. She constantly supported the attack with overlapping runs while remaining disciplined defensively. One of Zambia’s best performers.
Mapalo Maluba – 7/10
Produced a composed display at the back, providing defensive cover that allowed Zambia’s left flank to flourish.
Rhoda Chileshe – 7/10
Read the game brilliantly and intercepted danger on several occasions. Calm and assured throughout the contest.
Lushomo Mweemba – 8/10
Dominated aerial duels and marshalled the defence superbly. Egypt found it almost impossible to beat her physically.
Racheal Nachula – 7/10
Made history by becoming the oldest goalscorer in WAFCON history after confidently converting from the penalty spot. Also came close to adding another spectacular goal.
Midfielders
Ireen Lungu – 7/10
Worked tirelessly in midfield, breaking up Egyptian attacks and helping Zambia control possession.
Grace Chanda – 7/10
Looked back to her creative best. Her movement, passing and ability to carry the ball forward caused Egypt countless problems.
Forwards
Prisca Chilufya – 7/10
A lively performance that included winning a penalty and delivering an excellent assist for Barbra Banda.
Racheal Kundananji – 7/10
Although she was unfortunate not to score, she remained a constant attacking threat and capped her performance with an assist.
Barbra Banda – 10/10 ⭐
A performance worthy of the headlines. Banda scored four goals, won a penalty, created another goal and was directly involved in every goal Zambia scored. A complete captain’s display and one of the finest individual performances in WAFCON history.
Substitutes
Eneless Phiri – 8/10
Made an immediate impact after coming on, scoring a stunning long-range effort into the top corner to crown Zambia’s dominant display.
Evarine Katongo – 7/10
Showed excellent close control and dribbling, while her effort on goal led to one of Banda’s strikes.
Saliya Mwanza – 6/10
Added fresh energy on the wing and helped maintain Zambia’s attacking intensity.
Hellen Chanda – N/A
Introduced too late to receive a rating.
Margaret Gondwe – N/A
Had limited time to influence the game.
Xiomara Mapepa – N/A
Came on in the closing stages as Zambia comfortably saw out the victory.
Coach
Nora Häuptle – 10/10
Häuptle’s tactical approach was flawless. Zambia dominated from the opening whistle, controlled every area of the pitch and became even more clinical after the break. Her substitutions also had an immediate impact, making it a perfect evening for the Copper Queens and their coaching staff.
