Zambia Cup. Women
The Zambia Women's Cup is a premier national knockout competition run by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), pitting top women's clubs against each other for glory. It highlights the surge in women's football in Zambia, bolstered by the Copper Queens' global exploits, including their 2023 World Cup appearance.
History and foundation
Launched in the early 2000s amid Africa's women's football boom, the first edition kicked off in 2005. Green Buffaloes FC triumphed in 2019, while BUSA FC claimed it in 2022 via penalties in a thriller. Notably, the 2021 edition merged with the league due to COVID disruptions, ramping up intensity. The cup has fed talents to the Copper Queens, who stunned at the World Cup.
Tournament format
It's a straight knockout format with 16-24 teams from the Super League and lower tiers. Rounds from the last 16, no reseeding, culminating in a neutral-venue final in Lusaka or Ndola. Runs March to November, aligning with the league calendar, drawing passionate crowds.
Interesting facts
Matches average 2.5 goals, favoring quick counters. Top scorers include Hellen Chombe (Green Buffaloes, 25 goals over three years) and Esther Namakala (BUSA, 18). Standouts: Barbra Banda (ex-Zambian Queens, now China star, AFC record-holder), Rhoda Mungala (Copper Queens stalwart), Ochumba Okapot (defensive rock). The cup scouts future national team gems.