Copper Princesses Cruise Past DR Congo with Stunning 5-0 First-Leg Win

The Zambia U-17 Women’s National Team put on a ruthless display on Saturday afternoon, sweeping aside DR Congo 5–0 in the first leg of their second-round 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

Led by a brilliant hat-trick from Natasha Kasema and additional goals from Grace “Pogba” Phiri and late substitute Blessings Mutale, the Copper Princesses took full control of the tie and now head into the return leg with a commanding advantage.

Strong Start, Early Pressure

Zambia began the match with intent, pressing high and pushing DR Congo deep into their own half. Although the visitors briefly threatened in the early stages, goalkeeper Bukata Kakumbi was alert to deny an early effort and keep the scores level.

From there, the Copper Princesses settled into their rhythm and began dictating play with confidence and sharp attacking movements.

Phiri Breaks the Deadlock

The breakthrough arrived in the 23rd minute when Grace “Pogba” Phiri fired Zambia into the lead after sustained attacking pressure.

The goal lifted the home crowd and gave Zambia even more control of the match, with DR Congo struggling to contain wave after wave of attacks.

Kasema’s First-Half Precision

Zambia doubled their advantage just before the interval when Natasha Kasema confidently converted from the penalty spot in the 41st minute.

The penalty came after Faith Kaunda was brought down inside the area following a well-worked attacking move.

Kasema’s composed finish ensured Zambia went into halftime firmly in command.

Second-Half Dominance and a Hat-Trick Performance

Any hopes of a DR Congo comeback were quickly extinguished after the restart.

Only five minutes into the second half, Kasema struck again with a powerful long-range effort that left the goalkeeper helpless, extending Zambia’s lead to 3–0.

She completed her hat-trick in the 64th minute, finishing neatly from close range after another fluid attacking sequence from the Copper Princesses.

Her movement, sharpness in front of goal, and confidence made her the standout performer of the match.

Late Penalty Seals the Rout

Deep into stoppage time, Zambia were awarded another penalty after Fridah Ndashe was fouled inside the box.

Substitute Blessings Mutale stepped up and calmly converted to complete the 5–0 scoreline, adding further gloss to an already dominant performance.

All Eyes on the Second Leg in Lubumbashi

The return fixture is scheduled for May 31 at the Frederic Kibassa Maliba Stadium in Lubumbashi, where Zambia will look to finish the job.

The winner on aggregate will progress to the final qualifying round, where they will face either Ethiopia or Burundi for a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Full-Time Result

Zambia 5–0 DR Congo

• Grace “Pogba” Phiri (23’)
• Natasha Kasema (41’ pen, 50’, 64’)
• Blessings Mutale (90+6’ pen)

Final Word

It was a commanding and confident performance from the Copper Princesses, who showed their attacking strength and composure throughout the match.

With Kasema’s hat-trick leading the charge, Zambia now travel to DR Congo with a healthy cushion and strong belief that qualification to the next round is well within reach.