13/04/2026
THERE’S NO MAGIC: We Need To Be Better Organized - Copper Queens Captain Issues A Stinging Rebuke After Chaotic Build Up To FIFA Series In Brazil
Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda has given a rare but strong statement after poor travel and organization arrangements characterized Zambia’s trip to the FIFA Series in Brazil calling for “better organization of the team” as results on the pitch are not attained through “magic”.
There were only nine infield players and three goalkeepers in Brazil 24 hours before the opening match against Canada which the team lost 4-0.
Barbra Banda, the Orlando Pride star striker, and several other key players arrived hours before the Canada match. They were only introduced in the second half.
Speaking for the first time following the debacle, Barbra, rarely a unionist type of a player, appeared to pour her frustrations openly suggesting the team has had enough.
“We can beat top teams, but if we are not organized well, it won't happen by magic.
“We need proper organization from management down to the players.
“This is FIFA, this is a series. We cannot keep dropping our standards.”
The captain has urged both the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) and government to step up and improve the treatment of the team.
“Honestly, I would like to see more change.
“We can compete with these European teams, but preparation is key.
“We are representing Zambia and we wear this badge with pride, so we also need to be considered.”
Barbra, Grace Chanda, Lushimba Mweemba, Ireen Lungu, Martha Tembo, Prisca Chilufya all delayed to join camp. Their delay was attributed to visa glitches.
Zambia will face Brazil tomorrow at 21:30 local time (Wednesday, 03:30hrs Zambian time).
Banda says the team had drawn key lessons from their match against Canada.
“I think from the first game, we have learned a lot coming into the next game against Brazil.
“We know it won't be easy, but we are trying everything possible as a team to organize ourselves and go after them,” Banda said.
The US-based striker described the fixture as a valuable opportunity for the squad, especially the younger players, to test themselves against one of the world’s elite sides.
“These are high-profile teams and we need to play them to learn more. It is a good opportunity for our youngsters to showcase their talent,” said Banda.
Brazil, who host the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, beat South Korea 5-1 on the day Zambia lost 4-0.
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