Copper Queens Defeat Scorchers 2-0 in Rescheduled FIFA Friendly
Published on February 24, 2025 at 9:57 AM by Evance Kapito
The Zambia Women’s National Football Team, the Copper Queens, secured a 2-0 victory over Malawi in the first of two FIFA International Friendlies at a packed REIZ Arena (formerly Woodlands Stadium).
The match, which originally kicked off on Saturday afternoon, was halted in the 21st minute due to heavy rains just moments after midfielder Avell Chitundu had put Zambia in the lead. With the pitch deemed unplayable, officials rescheduled the game to Sunday morning, resuming from the 21st minute.
Despite the unexpected delay, fans turned up in large numbers, creating an electrifying atmosphere as the Copper Queens dominated possession. Coach Nora Hauptle’s side had a golden opportunity to extend their lead in the 28th minute when they were awarded a penalty, but Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo denied Racheal Nachula’s spot-kick, keeping the Scorchers in the contest.
However, Zambia eventually doubled their lead in the 79th minute when Racheal Kundananji delivered a stunning free-kick to seal the victory. The win marked a special milestone for Coach Hauptle as she celebrated her first victory in charge of the Copper Queens.
The two teams will face off again on Tuesday at 15:00 at REIZ Arena as the Copper Queens continue preparations for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2025.
