Zambia and Senegal enter unchartered territory on Wednesday night when they clash in the quarter-finals of the 2022 women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Casablanca.
Neither side has played in a semi-final at the competition. And neither side has featured in a World Cup.
Neither side has played in a semi-final at the competition. And neither side has featured in a World Cup.
Zambia coach Bruce Mwape said his side would go into Wednesday night’s game in an upbeat mood following two victories that took them to the top of Group B with seven points.
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“The team has been working hard.” Said Mwape on the eve of the match. “They’ve managed to create chances in the last couple of games. And with that in mind we should be able to do well as we are showing the consistency that’s needed in our team.”
Senegal finished behind hosts Morocco in Group A to register their best showing at the tournament. A decade after the country’s only appearance, the 2022 vintage has a chance to create history.
“This quarter-final is the match of my life because it is a qualifier for the World Cup.” Said Senegal skipper Safietou Sagna.
But, according to Senegal coach Mame Moussa Cissé, a formidable hurdle blocks the path to glory.
“We must take the Zambians very seriously.” He said.
“Their team has a lot of value collectively, especially in terms of commitment and solidarity.”
A minimum of two new Women’s World Cup finalists will be decided today and Thursday. The tournament not only serve to decide who is the best team on the continent but also four automatic African places at the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, next year.
Zambia qualified for last year’s Olympic Games, which for women was played at full international level. And they are therefore expected to overcome Senegal, even if their star player Barbara Banda is missing.
The Confederation of African Football ruled Banda out of the tournament for proof of gender requirements.
Team lineups :