Story by Anashe Murombedzi
ZIMBABWE’S Mighty Warriors will be aiming to secure regional bragging rights when they face hosts Zambia in the final of the Four Nations Tournament on Tuesday.
The eagerly anticipated showdown, dubbed the “Battle of the Zambezi”, pits together two of Southern Africa’s leading women’s football nations in a match that promises intensity, pride and a trophy at stake.
Zimbabwe secured their place in the final after a spirited 3-1 comeback victory over Lesotho in Saturday’s semi-final.
After Lesotho took the lead, the Mighty Warriors responded impressively, drawing level before half-time and adding two second-half goals to complete a convincing turnaround and book their place in the championship match.
Captain Emmaculate Msipha, Ethel Chinyerere and veteran striker Rutendo Makore were on target as Zimbabwe demonstrated resilience and attacking quality.
Zambia advanced to the final after overcoming Kenya in the other semi-final. The Copper Queens prevailed 4-1 in a penalty shootout after the match had ended 1-1 in regulation time.
The final presents an opportunity for both sides to assess their progress ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games qualifying campaign, with the tournament serving as an important preparatory platform.
While Zambia will enjoy home advantage and strong backing from their supporters in Ndola, Zimbabwe enter the encounter buoyed by confidence following their impressive semi-final performance.
The rivalry between the two neighbours has grown significantly in recent years, with matches often producing highly competitive contests and showcasing the rapid development of women’s football in the region.
With a trophy, regional supremacy and valuable FIFA ranking points on the line, Tuesday’s final is expected to deliver another compelling chapter in the sporting rivalry between Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Kenya and Lesotho will contest the third-place play-off earlier on the same day.
