Copper Queens thrash Egypt 6-0 in WAFCON opener

Rabat, Morocco – The Zambian Women's National Football Team, affectionately known as the Copper Queens, delivered a spectacular opening statement at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Rabat, Morocco, by comprehensively defeating Group C rivals Egypt 6-0 on Tuesday night. The emphatic victory, orchestrated under the tutelage of coach Nora Häuptle, immediately positions Zambia as a formidable force in the continental showpiece, signalling their serious intent to clinch their first-ever WAFCON title. Captain fantastic, Barbra Banda, was undoubtedly the star of the night, unleashing a breathtaking four-goal haul and contributing an assist, directly involving herself in five of Zambia's six goals. The Orlando Pride striker's clinical finishing and relentless attacking prowess proved too much for the Egyptian defence, particularly in a dominant second-half display. The Copper Queens took an early lead through a penalty converted by veteran Rachel Nachula in the 25th minute, setting the stage for Banda's second-half masterclass. This commanding performance not only secured three crucial points but also sent a clear message to other contenders in the tournament. Zambia controlled the game from the outset, demonstrating superior possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Their tactical discipline and fluid attacking play, hallmarks of Nora Häuptle's coaching philosophy, were evident throughout the match. The team's ability to convert pressure into goals, especially after the break, highlighted their growing maturity and confidence on the international stage. Following Nachula's opener, Banda converted a penalty in the 60th minute, added another just three minutes later, completed her hat-trick in the 87th, and sealed her four-goal performance in stoppage time. Substitute Eneless Phiri also found the back of the net, adding Zambia's fifth goal, further cementing the team's overwhelming dominance. This historic win marks Zambia's largest margin