The Zambia Under-17 women’s national team rallied to a 3-1 win over Morocco today, increasing its chances of qualifying for the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in the Dominican Republic from 16 October to 3 November.
Striker Namute Chileshe stole the limelight at the Heroes National Stadium, scoring a hat-trick to steer the Copper Princesses to a very important victory.
Chileshe put the Copper Princesses in front after 13 minutes in the encounter to set the tone for an impressive outing at home for the Copper Princesses.
The Green Buffaloes Women’s sensation was on song and got the better of the Moroccans’ defense once as she slotted home from close range to complete her brace in the 24th minute.
The visitors pulled one back through Azraf Kautar with 8 minutes before the interval, giving her side hope for a dramatic comeback in the second half.
Morocco continued its pursuit of an equalizer in the second half, prompting the Copper Princesses’ coach, Carol Kanyemba, to call for a double change. She withdrew midfielder Ruth Mukoma and Mary Mukupa for Ruth Muwowo and Precious Mwape, respectively.
Kanyemba’s changes paid off as the Copper Princesses consolidated their lead with another goal by the sensational Namute Chileshe, who completed her hat-trick in the 82nd minute.
With today’s victory, the Copper Princesses only need to avoid defeat when they travel to Morocco for the return leg set for 15 June to confirm their place at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
