Barbra Banda scored four goals as Zambia Women's Soccer kicked off their WAFCON 2026 campaign with a 6-0 win over Egypt Women's National Football Team in Monday's Group C play.
The Orlando Pride forward controlled the match from the opening whistle, leading Zambia's attacking press. That pressure paid off midway through the first half, when Racheal Nachula converted a penalty after Banda was fouled in the box.
Then the floodgates opened after the break.
Barbra Banda Dominates Egypt Women's National Football Team in 2nd Half
Banda converted a spot kick of her own in the 60th minute before heading home a cross just three minutes later. She sealed her hat trick after a scramble from a corner, then added a fourth late, finishing off a Racheal Kundananji cross from close range.
Eneless Phiri also found the net, firing in from distance off a Banda assist.
Despite the scoreline, Egypt's side showed fight, especially on the goal line. Keeper Maha Shehata made several saves and played through a shoulder injury before Zambia's attack overwhelmed her abilities.
Zambia Claims Top Spot in WAFCON 2026 Group C
The result marks Zambia's largest ever WAFCON victory. The Copper Queens finished third in 2022 and reached the quarterfinals in 2024. Now, they sit atop Group C with Nigeria and Malawi on the docket.
