The Zambia Women’s National Football Team, popularly known as the Copper Queens has suffered a 2-0 defeat to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in an international friendly match played Lucas Moripe Stadium in South Africa.
The game, which started evenly, saw both sides go into the break goalless after a tightly contested first half with few clear chances.The second half, however, brought more action and tactical changes, particularly from the Zambian bench.
Kabange Mupopo was the first to be substituted, making way for Mercy Chipasula in a bid to inject fresh energy into midfield. Just minutes later, Lushomo Mweemba suffered an injury and was replaced by Pauline Zulu, who slotted into the defensive line.
The Copper Queens showed promise in attack, with Barbra Banda making a notable run down the wing in the 56th minute, though her cross failed to trouble South African goalkeeper, Andile Dlamini. Moments later, Grace Chanda created a golden opportunity from a corner, but Banda’s header sailed over the bar.
In the 70th minute, Prisca Chilufya and Mary Wilombe were brought on to replace Banda and Susan Katongo, but the fresh legs could not change the tide.
Banyana Banyana took the lead in the 74th minute through Bongeka Gamede, who curled in a free-kick past the Zambian wall and into the net.
Just five minutes later, Jermaine Seoposenwe doubled the lead, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to tap home from close range and seal the win for the visitors.
Despite a late substitution with Fridah Mukoma replacing veteran winger Racheal Nachula, the Copper Queens couldn’t find a breakthrough and the match ended 2-0 in favor of South Africa.