Young goalkeeper Winfridah Mutale says her call-up to Zambia’s provisional 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations squad is a dream she does not take for granted.
Mutale is one of five goalkeepers in coach Nora Hauptle’s 28-member provisional team, made up mostly of home-based players, ahead of WAFCON in Morocco from July 26 to August 16.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity. Getting called up to the senior national team was a dream for me,” the Elite Women’s FC shot-stopper said.
“I’ll be there to work and learn from the experienced players and give everything for the badge.”
The 2026 CAF Schools Tournament bronze medallist said she is looking forward to learning from senior keepers Hazel Nali of Zesco Ndola Girls and Catherine Musonda of Red Arrows.
“It’s not about me having the minutes, but it’s about the tournament. Whether I start or come off the bench or support the squad,” Mutale said.
“My team will always come first. This call-up means a lot because they believe I can handle the pressure.”
Mutale, also in the squad with Indeni’s Eunice Sakala and Green Buffaloes’ Chishala Mufunte, said she is not in competition with the senior keepers.
“I need to cooperate with them so I can learn. The more I get in touch with them, the more they’ll help me,” she said.
Zambia will enter local camp next week before travelling to Algeria for a final WAFCON camp.
The Copper Queens will play two friendlies against Algeria, before joining Group C with Egypt, Malawi and defending champions Nigeria at the tournament.
