Zambia on Sunday launches their campaign for a place at the 2016 African Women Championship with a tricky home match against neighbours Namibia in Lusaka.
Shepolopolo host the Brave Gladiators of Namibia in the first leg match of the first round at Nkoloma Stadium.
Albert Kachinga’s women are seeking only their second appearance at the African Women Championship.
Ahead of this game, coach Kachinga assembled a squad of youthful and experienced players. He is upbeat that Zambia will triumph over Namibia.
“I am pretty sure we will carry the day. Expectations are high but it won’t be easy because they will also come to fight,” he said.
Players available for selection in the Zambian camp includes keeper Hazel Nali of Nchanga Queens, Green Buffaloes defender Annie Kibanji, star midfielder Barbra Banda and experienced striker Noria “Mbesuma” Sosala of Indeni Roses.
Namibia coach Jacky Shipanga says her team was in Zambia to win.
“We want to go out and beat Zambia. Our focus is not on the opponents but concentrate on the girls,” she said.
This year’s African Women Championship will be held in Cameroon from October to November.
