Racheal Kundananji, a forward for Bay FC and the Zambia national team, anticipates success for the Copper Queens in WAFCON 2023 in Morocco, describing her teammates as a ‘chosen generation.’ Following a third-place finish at WAFCON 2022 and participation in international tournaments, the team is looking to capitalize on their potential and improve under new coach Nora Häuptle.
Racheal Kundananji, forward for Bay FC and the Zambia national team, expresses strong support for the Copper Queens as they prepare for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco this July. She refers to her teammates as a ‘chosen generation’ and emphasizes their potential to achieve success in the tournament. Zambia previously placed third at WAFCON 2022, earning a spot in the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, and has also participated in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics and is slated for the Paris 2024 games.
Kundananji, who transferred to Bay FC for a world record fee last year, has begun the current season under new head coach Nora Häuptle on a high note, scoring during a recent 2-0 victory against Malawi. In anticipation of her first international window under the new coach, Kundananji conveyed her excitement about developing a deeper connection with Häuptle and anticipating the tactical style she will bring to the team. She remarked on the strength and capability of the Zambian squad, stating, “We have a very big team – a best team who can win a lot of games and a lot of trophies.”
The forward noted her belief that Zambia is poised for victory in WAFCON, stating, “I feel like we are coming back victorious. I believe that because Zambia is a special team.” Kundananji further elaborated on the accomplishments of this generation, believing it to be a transformative moment for the Zambian women’s national team as they aim to make their mark in the tournament. She expressed immense optimism about their readiness to succeed under the guidance of their new coach.
In addition to Kundananji, Orlando Pride striker Barbra Banda is anticipated to lead an impressive Zambian offense. The two have previously faced each other in the NWSL, where their matchups attracted notable support from fans. Kundananji shared her fans’ enthusiasm, illustrating the unity and pride among supporters: “When Barbra holds the ball, they are like: ‘Hey, Barbra!’ When I hold the ball, they are like: ‘Hey, Kundananji!'”
Zambia will compete in Group A alongside Morocco, Senegal, and DR Congo, with the top two teams and the two best third-placed teams progressing to the quarter-finals. Banda’s anticipated return to the squad following her absence from the last WAFCON due to controversial regulations on testosterone levels is expected to provide a significant boost to the team’s morale.
Reflecting on the evolution of the national team, Banda remarked on their journey, emphasizing the progress made despite past challenges. She expressed hope for improved outcomes in the upcoming WAFCON, praising the influence of the new coaching staff in enhancing the team’s performance. Banda conveyed her readiness to collaborate closely with the coach to realize the team’s vision for success.
In conclusion, Kundananji and Banda represent the hope and talent of Zambia’s women’s national soccer team as they head into the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Supported by new coaching leadership and previous successes, the Copper Queens aim to capitalize on their strengths and make a significant impact in the upcoming tournament. Kundananji’s and Banda’s enthusiasm and confidence highlight the team’s potential as they strive for victory.
Original Source: www.espn.co.uk
