Racheal Kundananji, forward for Zambia and Bay FC, supports her team’s ambitions at the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, highlighting their growth as a ‘chosen generation.’ Both Kundananji and Barbra Banda are key players expected to lead Zambia’s attack. With a strong team dynamic and new coaching, Zambia aims for success in the tournament, having previously qualified for the Women’s World Cup and the Olympics.
Racheal Kundananji, a forward for both Bay FC and the Zambia national team, has expressed confidence in the Copper Queens’ chances at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco this July, referring to them as a ‘chosen generation.’ The team previously secured a third-place finish at WAFCON 2022, which led to their qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Kundananji, who transferred to Bay FC in a world record deal, has made a strong impression under new Zambia women’s national team coach Nora Häuptle. She contributed a goal in Zambia’s recent 2-0 victory over Malawi. Speaking to ESPN, Kundananji expressed her eagerness to work closely with Häuptle and develop a personal rapport.
Kundananji remarked on the potential of the Zambia team, stating, “I know we have a very big team – a best team who can win a lot of games and a lot of trophies.” She emphasized her belief that Zambia is a special team, anticipating a victorious outcome at WAFCON. She stated, “I feel like it’s a chosen generation for Zambia’s women’s national team. We are ready to go there and shine.
The forward noted that she and fellow striker Barbra Banda, who is also anticipated to be an integral part of the Zambia lineup, will enhance the team’s attacking strength. They previously faced each other in the NWSL, with competitive experiences that Kundananji found both enjoyable and nostalgic due to their shared national pride.
Zambia will compete in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal, and DR Congo. The top two teams from each group, plus two of the best third-placed teams, will advance to the quarter-finals. Banda is expected to return after missing the last WAFCON due to controversial regulations, providing an added boost to the Copper Queens’ lineup.
Reflecting on the team’s progress, Banda stated, “We’ve come a long way, with a lot of ups and downs, but we’ve kept on improving each and every day.” She expressed optimism about achieving greater success at WAFCON under the new coaching staff and recognized the importance of club training in her preparation.
In conclusion, the Zambia women’s national team is poised for a promising run in the upcoming WAFCON, spurred on by the leadership of coach Häuptle and the talents of players like Kundananji and Banda. The team’s confidence and collective ambition suggest that they are ready to meet the challenges ahead, aiming for victory on a continental stage.
Racheal Kundananji’s confidence in the Zambia women’s national team highlights the potential of a talented squad, poised for success at WAFCON. With the return of key players and the guidance of a new coach, Zambia aims to surpass previous achievements and make a significant impact in the tournament.
Original Source: www.espn.co.uk
