The journey of Zambia’s Copper Queens to the FIFA Series in Brazil is more than just another tournament—it is a powerful continuation of a remarkable rise that has redefined women’s football in the country. As they travel from San José to Cuiabá, the team steps into a competition where they will face elite opposition in Brazil, Canada, and South Korea—all ranked within the world’s top 11. Despite Zambia sitting at 66th in the global rankings, this stage is far from unfamiliar territory. The Copper Queens have steadily built a reputation for challenging football’s traditional hierarchy, proving that rankings do not define ambition or potential.
This moment is rooted in a journey that began back in 2014, when Zambia first made global headlines at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica. That breakthrough laid the foundation for a generation of players who would go on to achieve unprecedented milestones. The team’s progression saw them qualify for consecutive Olympic Games—first at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and later the Paris 2024 Olympics—solidifying their place among the global elite. Their historic appearance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 further cemented Zambia’s growing influence on the world stage, showcasing resilience, talent, and fearless football against some of the best teams in the world.
Now, as the FAZ Media Team reflects on this inspiring evolution, the contrast between the humble beginnings of 2014 and the competitive force seen in 2023 is striking. What was once a dream has transformed into a consistent presence at the highest level. The Copper Queens are no longer just participants—they are competitors with a growing belief and identity. Heading into the FIFA Series in Cuiabá, this narrative of growth, courage, and ambition continues to unfold, as Zambia once again dares to measure itself against the very best in the game.
