Africa-Press – Zambia. The Zambia Women’s National Team beat Namibia 2-0 in their opening group match at the 2022 Cosafa Women Championship in South Africa to start their campaign on a bright note.
Striker Barbara Banda scored in each half to hand the Mwape-coached side a vital win as the Copper Queens aim to win the regional tournament. Skipper Barbra Banda returned to the starting lineup after missing the COSAFA Women’s Championship leading the attack alongside Ochumba Oseke Lubanji.
Namibia threatened just after the kick off but their effort went over the bar. The Copper Queens then took over with Barbra Banda pulling her effort just wife off the goal.
Four minutes into the match, the skipper got on the end of an Avell Chitundu pass before beating the keeper and slotting home with ease. Banda could have had a brace a few minutes later but her close range shot after a brilliant team move hit the post.
Namibia proved to be a tough opponent again as the match went to the break with Zambia only leading by a goal to nil at half time. In the second half, The Copper Queens came back looking to extend their lead and got their reward in the 71st minute as Barbra Banda struck again finishing off a brilliant Ochumba Oseke Lubanji pass.
Namibia also came close through their star Zanetha Coleman from a freekick which was saved by Catherine Musonda and needing Margaret Belemu to clear the danger.
Mwape made a few changes in the second introducing Mary Wilombe, Misozi Zulu and later Enelesi Phiri for her Copper Queens debut. The Copper Queens next match will be on Sunday against Lesotho. Only the group winners and the best placed second team will progress to the semifinals.
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