Zambia underlined their credentials as regional powerhouses having clinched the Three Nations Women’s Football Tournament following a 3-1 victory over Zimbabwe at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Tuesday.
The Copper Queens finished the tournament with four points from two matches having drawn with hosts Malawi 1-1 on Sunday.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, finished second with three points after beating Malawi 2-1 in the opening match last week Friday. But hosts Malawi finished last with one point from two matches.
Both Zambia and Zimbabwe went into the match on Tuesday with chances to clinch the title. But it was Zambia, who showed great determination to win it.
A first half brace from Enelesi Phiri and Natasha Nanyangwe’s goal later on in the first stanza was enough for Zambia to win the tournament. But Zimbabwe captain Nobukhosi Ncube scored a consolation for Zimbabwe.
It was a match that lived up to its expectations as the old foes renewed their rivalry. Perhaps, the fans went back home satisfied with the quality of football.
Three matches of the tournament produced nine goals. Interestingly, each produced three goals. Phiri, Nanyangwe and Ethel Chinyerere each scored two goals.
But Phiri was crowned as the top goal scorer for adding an assist to her two goals at the tournament. US-based striker Racheal Kundananji was voted as Player-of-the-Tournament.
Zambia assistant coach Charles Halubono praised her players for the great performance. “The girls have performed well. It was a tactical game but were able to create chances and get the goals,” said Halubono.
Zimbabwe coach Sithethelwe Sibanda rued missed chances. “We actually created clear cut chances that we could have levelled. Well done to Zambia and they gave us a good run. They deserved to win the tournament,” said Sibanda.
Sibanda said despite the loss there were several positives from the tournament.
The tournament provided the three teams an opportunity to prepare for upcoming competitions. Malawi and Zambia are preparing for the 2026 CAF TotalEnergies Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) finals to be staged from March 17 to April 3 in Morocco.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, are preparing for the upcoming Cosafa Women’s Championship.
