Musonda and Mapepa might come back as the Copper Queens get ready for their match against Senegal.

Nora Häuptle, the head coach of the Copper Queens, has suggested that key players Catherine Musonda and Xiomara Mapepa could return just in time for today’s important Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAfCON) Group A game against Senegal.

Musonda, who is the team’s main goalkeeper, and Mapepa, a fast winger, both missed Zambia’s first match, which ended in a 2-2 draw with Morocco, because of injuries. However, Häuptle mentioned in a pre-match talk that both players have started full training again and might play, depending on their final fitness check before the game starts.

“Catherine Musonda, our main goalkeeper, couldn’t play in the first game, but she trained with us, and so did Xiomara Mapepa,” Häuptle said. “We need to see how they improve by tomorrow, and then we can let you know if they will be in the lineup.”

Having them back could really help the Copper Queens as they get ready to take on a strong and confident Senegal team, who just won 4-0 against DR Congo.

Musonda’s experience in goal and Mapepa’s quick attacking skills are considered very important, especially against a Senegal team that plays aggressively and puts a lot of pressure on their opponents.

Even with the tough challenge ahead, Häuptle is hopeful about her team’s preparation. She pointed out that the squad has recovered well from the game against Morocco and is concentrating on improving their tactics, especially in keeping the ball and organizing their defense.

“We are one of the fastest teams in transition in this tournament,” she said, adding that Zambia’s ability to react quickly under pressure will be crucial to beating Senegal.

Meanwhile, star striker Racheal Kundananji mentioned that the team has moved on from the Morocco match and is fully focused on the upcoming game.

“We’ve already forgotten about that game because we don’t want to dwell on it,” Kundananji said. “This game is really important for us. It’s our second step in this tournament.