Banda Stars As Clinical Zambia Cruise Past Egypt in Group C Opener

Rabat, Morocco – The Zambian Women's National Football Team, affectionately known as the Copper Queens, made an undeniable statement of intent in their opening fixture of the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2026, delivering a crushing 6-0 defeat to Egypt in a Group C encounter. Spearheading this spectacular performance was none other than captain Barbra Banda, whose clinical finishing and exceptional leadership saw her bag an impressive four goals, firmly establishing Zambia as a formidable contender in the continental showpiece. The match, played on Monday, saw the Copper Queens assert their dominance from the outset, controlling possession and launching relentless attacks. The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Racheal Nachula converted a penalty after Banda was fouled inside the box, setting the tone for what was to follow. While Egypt's goalkeeper, Maha Shehata, put up a valiant effort with several crucial saves, she was ultimately overwhelmed by the Zambian onslaught, particularly in the second half. Barbra Banda truly came alive after the interval, converting a penalty of her own in the 60th minute before swiftly adding another just three minutes later with a well-placed header. Her hat-trick was completed following a scramble from a corner, and she capped off her individual brilliance with a fourth goal late in the game, finishing a precise cross from Racheal Kundananji. Eneless Phiri also contributed to the rout, firing in a long-range effort following an assist from Banda, underscoring the team's cohesive attacking prowess. This resounding victory marks Zambia's largest ever win in WAFCON history, a significant milestone for a team that secured a third-place finish in 2022 and reached the quarterfinals in 2024. The Copper Queens now sit atop Group C, a strong position as they prepare to face formidable opponents like Nigeria and Malawi in their upcoming fixtures. The performance not only boosts team mora