Fit-again Zambia captain Barbra Banda says the Copper Queens are “not disturbed” by their 1-0 friendly defeat to Algeria as the team shifts focus to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Banda was in the starting line-up for Wednesday night’s match at Mustapha Tchaker Stadium, 48 hours after joining the Zambian camp in Algiers.

Her fitness had been a matter of concern after she recently missed Zambia’s pre-WAFCON friendlies.

The Orlando Pride striker played slightly over 45 minutes before being replaced by Ochumba Lubanji as Coach Nora Häuptle made several tactical changes.

Kabange Mupopo came on for Racheal Kundananji, Eneless Phiri replaced Prisca Chilufya, Evarine Katongo replaced Ireen Lungu, Margaret Gondwe came on for Lushomo Mweemba, and Saliya Mwanza replaced Margaret Belemu.

Ochumba later missed a late penalty for Zambia after midfielder Grace Chanda was fouled in the Algeria box.

Algeria scored the winner in the 83rd minute through Naili Nouhed.

“We are not disturbed by the loss in this friendly match. We are focused on the WAFCON,” Banda said.

“We are going to the Africa Cup to work hard and reach the group stage. We want to win the WAFCON and qualify to the World Cup,” she added.

Zambia had drawn 1-1 with Algeria in their first friendly at the weekend.

The Copper Queens will now depart for Morocco ahead of WAFCON, which kicks off on Sunday, 26th July 2026.

ZAMBIA XI: Hazel Nali, Lushomo Mweemba, Rhoda Chileshe, Blessing Maluba, Rachael Nachula, Grace Chanda, Ireen Lungu, Margaret Belemu, Prisca Chilufya, Rachael Kundananji, Barbra Banda.

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