Zambia Women National Team’s upcoming international friendly match against Malawi as the first part of preparations for the Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON), have received a thumbs-up from soccer analysts.

Soccer Analyst, Joshua Machona, has commended the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) for organising the friendlies, saying they will give newly appointed Head Coach, Nora Hauptle, a chance to assess the team’s strengths and weaknesses.

In an interview with ZANIS in Lusaka Yesterday, Machona emphasised the need for the team to develop a strategy that does not rely heavily on individual brilliance from key players like Barbara Banda and Racheal Kundananji.

John Mbabala, another soccer analyst, noted that Malawi has improved significantly over the past two years and will pose a strong challenge for the Copper Queens.

“Malawi’s strength lies in their final third which will test Zambia’s defense,”Mbabala said.

Meanwhile, Wezi Mazunda, cautioned that the Copper Queens face a tough WAFCON campaign, having being drawn in group A alongside hosts, Morocco, Congo DR, and Senegal for the tournament.

“The team needs to remain focused and take the preparations seriously. The ultimate goal should be to win the AFCON title,” Mazunda said.

The matches, scheduled during the February 17-26 FIFA Window, are part of the team’s preparations for the WAFCON which kicks off in July in Morocco.