COSAFA: Zambia feeling no pressure ahead of title defence – Kabange

Zambia women’s national team captain Mupopo Kabange has pointed to strong morale in camp as the Copper Queens prepares to defend their COSAFA Women’s Championship crown in South Africa.

The Copper Queens will face Botswana at 15:00 hours in Polokwane on Thursday. Zambia head into the tournament as defending champions having won title in 2024.

“The team spirit is very high; you know we are even defending the title. The spirit is very high and everyone is ready for the game,” Mupopo told FAZ Media.

Mupopo dismissed talk of pressure associated with defending the title, saying the squad is focused on delivering on the pitch.

Zambia not under any pressure

“We are not having any pressure for the title; it’s just for us to put in the best; work hard and concentrate on what we want to achieve. We have to work together; always to know what we are here for.”

She acknowledged the responsibility that comes with being one of the senior players in the team.

“Leadership is very important because everyone even younger players will be looking up to us for me as a senior player as a leader so I have put in a lot of good work.”

She described COSAFA as a demanding competition and stressed the need for hard work throughout the campaign.

“We are not taking it as a simple thing. It’s a very tough tournament as you can see Botswana is here. South Africa is here; so, it’s not an easy tournament but we are ready for it.”

“In our minds we want to prepare very well; a win will be good for us because we are even preparing for the WAFCON.”

After facing Botswana, Zambia will take on Zimbabwe before concluding their Group B matches against Eswatini.