By Lucky Chama 
Zambia Women’s National Team coach Nora Häuptle has summoned a 42-member provisional squad for next month’s back-to-back Morocco 2026 FIFA Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final qualifier against Namibia.
The Copper Queens tactician has recalled Hazel Nali of Zesco Ndola Girls and Agness Fabiola Banda from Nchanga Queens, both fit again after injury layoffs. In-form Zesco striker Eneles Phiri and Kamfinsa Police’s speedster Mercy Chipasula are also among the notable inclusions.
Israel-based veteran Rachael Nachula, currently in Zambia, will train with the local contingent, while Under-20 prospects Chishala Mufunte and Margaret Gondwe are set to join after this weekend’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Burundi in Ndola.
Foreign-based regulars will link up with the squad when the FIFA window opens on October 20. Häuptle’s charges face Namibia in the first leg on October 22 at Dobsonville Stadium in South Africa, as Namibia currently lacks a FIFA-approved venue. Zambia will then host the Brave Gladiators in the return leg on October 26 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
The aggregate winner will secure a place at Morocco 2026 WAFCON, which doubles as a qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The full provisional squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and rising talent across all positions, including seven goalkeepers, 13 defenders, 9 midfielders, and 13 attackers, drawn mainly from the FAZ Women’s Super League and top foreign leagues.
Häuptle is expected to trim the squad closer to the fixture dates as Zambia aim for a third consecutive WAFCON appearance and another shot at World Cup qualification.
Joseph Tembo 
Cecilia Chiluba