Zambia’s Copper Queens produced one of the most dominant performances of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a stunning 6–0 victory over Egypt today.
Led by a sensational four-goal performance from captain Barbra Banda, Zambia overwhelmed Egypt from start to finish to record one of the biggest wins of the tournament so far.
Zambia Take Control
Although Egypt defended well during the opening stages, Zambia’s attacking quality eventually broke through.
The Copper Queens were awarded a penalty in the 25th minute, and Racheal Nachula confidently converted from the spot to give Zambia a deserved 1–0 lead.
The goal lifted Zambia’s confidence as they continued to dominate possession and create chances, while Egypt struggled to contain the pace and movement of the Zambian attack.
Barbra Banda Takes Over
The second half belonged to Zambia captain Barbra Banda, who delivered a world-class performance.
She doubled Zambia’s lead with a penalty in the 60th minute before scoring again just three minutes later to make it 3–0. Banda was far from finished, adding her third goal in the 87th minute to complete her hat-trick before sealing an incredible four-goal haul deep into stoppage time.
Phiri Adds the Fifth
Substitute Eneless Phiri also got on the scoresheet, finding the net in the 90+2nd minute after Zambia continued to pile pressure on the Egyptian defence.
Her goal made it 5–0 before Banda completed the scoring moments later.
Goalscorers
- 25′ – Racheal Nachula (Zambia, Penalty)
- 60′ – Barbra Banda (Zambia, Penalty)
- 63′ – Barbra Banda (Zambia)
- 87′ – Barbra Banda (Zambia)
- 90+2′ – Eneless Phiri (Zambia)
- 90+6′ – Barbra Banda (Zambia)
A Statement Victory
The emphatic victory sends a strong message to the rest of the tournament. Zambia combined attacking flair, clinical finishing, and defensive discipline to completely outclass Egypt.
Captain Barbra Banda once again demonstrated why she is regarded as one of the finest footballers on the continent, leading by example with an outstanding four-goal performance.
What the Result Means
The victory gives Zambia three valuable points and significantly boosts their goal difference, which could prove crucial later in the group stage.
For Egypt, the heavy defeat is a difficult setback. They will need to regroup quickly, tighten their defence, and improve their attacking efficiency if they hope to remain in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.
Final Thoughts
Zambia’s 6–0 demolition of Egypt will be remembered as one of the standout performances of WAFCON 2026. Inspired by Barbra Banda’s remarkable four-goal display, the Copper Queens showcased their championship credentials with a ruthless attacking performance.
If Zambia maintain this level of intensity and finishing, they will undoubtedly be among the favourites to challenge for the WAFCON title.
