Copper Queens Edge Kenya on Penalties to Reach Four Nations Final

The Copper Queens have booked their place in the final of the Four Nations Tournament in Ndola, but only after a hard-fought win over Kenya at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. Zambia were made to work for it, eventually edging Kenya 4-1 on post-match penalties following a 1-1 draw on Saturday afternoon.

The hosts had taken an early lead through Priscar Chilufya, who struck in the fourth minute. But Kenya refused to fold and drew level through Marion Serenge with 13 minutes left on the clock, sending the contest to a shootout. From the spot, Zambia held their nerve, converting through Irene Lungu, Racheal Kundananji, Saliyah Mwanza and Ochumba Oseke to seal the result. Notably, star striker Barbra Banda did not feature in the side that faced Kenya.

In the final on Tuesday evening, the Copper Queens will meet Zimbabwe, who booked their place in commanding fashion. Zimbabwe overcame Lesotho 3-1 in the earlier lunchtime fixture at the same venue, a result that underlined their attacking intent ahead of the showpiece.

For both Zambia and Kenya, the tournament is valuable preparation ahead of next month's Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where the Copper Queens will be looking to make their mark on the continental stage. Tuesday's final offers Zambia a timely chance to test themselves against another WAFCON-bound side and build momentum at home before the tournament in Morocco.