London – Zambias Cooper Queens will play their first-ever World Cup match on the 22nd of July 2023 against Japan this summer.
The road to the World Cup has been nothing but positive for the team after being the first landlocked African nation to qualify for a mens or Womens World Cup in the region.
During the qualification round, Zambia won 4 – 2 in a suspenseful but action-packed match against Senegal.
After extra time, it was a one-all draw and the only way to separate from each other was over a penalty shootout.
Hazel Nali, who with confidence decides to take a penalty head-on, scores and makes history for Zambia.
The Bulrushes spoke with Hazel Nali, who is the Zambian goalkeeper, about her journey to the World Cup so far.
About her journey, Nali said: The dream began immediately after I started playing the qualifying games (WAFCON), and when we qualified we started planning for the World Cup.
Speaking to The Bulushes, Nali spoke about her excitement so far.
She said: The best part has been my goal in helping Zambia qualify.
I also asked her about how she and the team were preparing: I must say, were working so hard – so good so far!
We also discussed the support the team is getting and Nali said: We are feeling the love and support from our families, friends, and especially from our fans and the country, which we are beyond grateful for.
The team has high hopes this summer and Nali said: We are just hoping for the best during the period.
I have quite a number of goals but, most importantly, because I have my own personal goals, I need to make sure as a team we do our best and all that is needed will follow.
The World Cup is only 34 days away and Zambia is more than ready to take on the rest of the teams.
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup will be held in Australia and New Zealand. making it the first-ever co-hosted Women’s World Cup.
The first-ever co-hosted Women’s World Cup starts on July 20 with the final taking place on August 20 in Sydney at the Accor Stadium.
