Zambia navigates controversy while aiming for Olympic glory | OneFootball

The Zambia women’s national football team always seems to face some controversy before a major event. Leading up to significant tournaments, the team has encountered a range of challenges, and the 2024 Paris Olympics are no exception.

Just months ago, Zambia faced a FIFA suspension that could’ve led to Olympic disqualification. That all came about when police arrested Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) members for money laundering offences. Unfortunately, that was only the tip of the iceberg of what the women’s national team has had to endure.

Zambia’s turbulent journey to major tournaments

In the lead-up to the 2022 WAFCON, higher testosterone levels and strict CAF rules blocked not only Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji’s participation but also Banda’s transfer to Real Madrid. Luckily for them and the Copper Queens, FIFA solved the matter early enough for the team to have both players in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad.

But then, larger allegations hit the Zambia national team: Media speculation arose of head coach Bruce Mwape abusing players. The FAZ did not verify these allegations, and Mwape is still in charge. But FIFA has banned Mwape from having private contact with his players at the Olympics as a form of safeguarding.

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Moreover, Mwape is facing another allegation of “inappropriate behaviour” towards a FIFA staff member during the 2023 World Cup. Again, the allegation has not been substantiated, as FIFA is still investigating. Without evidence and confirmed guilt, the FAZ and FIFA remain supportive of Mwape.

Zambia’s key players and recent team changes

Undoubtedly, Zambia remains a compelling team to watch at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The national team has three stand-out offensive players: Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, and Grace Chanda. These players have been making headlines in the NWSL, not only for their excellent performance but also for the significant transfer fees paid by clubs to bring them to the US.

The team is currently missing some key players, such as goalkeeper Hazel Nali, who suffered an ACL injury just before the 2023 World Cup. Fortunately, the shot-stopper is making a comeback after signing for Greek side OFI Kreta.

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Susan Banda and Evarine Katongo are also sidelined for Zambia due to injuries. Other notable absentees include Ireen Lungu, Margaret Belemu, Angess Musase, and Siomala Mapepa, who were part of the starting 11 in the World Cup but have not received call-ups since then.

On a positive note, Zambia’s Olympic squad features Kabenge Mupopo, who returned to football after years in athletics. Mupopo was an African Champion in the 400 meters and participated in the 2016 Rio Olympics. Two years later, the International Association of Athletics (IAAF) banned Mupopo for four years (counting from 2017) because she tested positive for a banned substance at the 2017 World Athletics Championships. Now, she’s back to her primary sport and set to make an impact for Zambia at the Paris Olympics.

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