The Copper Queens of Zambia have been eliminated from the women’s Olympic football tournament at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games following a 4-1 defeat to Germany on Wednesday, July 31.
This loss marks the end of Zambia’s journey in the competition, as Barbra Banda and her teammates failed to secure the necessary points to advance.
Despite their efforts, the Zambians were unable to overcome the German team.
The match began with an early setback for Zambia, as Lea Schüller scored for Germany in the 10th minute.
The Copper Queens struggled to find their rhythm and were unable to equalize in the first half.
The German side maintained control and posed a constant threat to the Zambian defense.
After the break, Germany extended their lead with a goal from Klara Bühl in the 47th minute, leaving Zambia with an uphill battle.
A brief moment of hope came when Barbra Banda capitalized on a defensive error to reduce the deficit.
The Orlando Pride striker’s goal sparked a glimmer of hope for the Zambian side, but it was short-lived.
Germany quickly regained their dominance, with Schüller adding a third goal in the 61st minute. Any remaining hopes for Zambia were dashed when Laura Freigang scored in added time (90+7), sealing a comprehensive victory for the German team.
Zambia’s defeat left them at the bottom of Group B with zero points, having conceded 13 goals across three matches.
The Copper Queens struggled throughout the tournament, unable to secure a win or draw in any of their games.
Their campaign ended with three consecutive losses, highlighting the challenges they faced on the Olympic stage.
On the other hand, Germany’s victory ensured their qualification for the next round.
Finishing second in the group with six points, the German team demonstrated their strength and resilience throughout the group stage.
Reflecting on Zambia’s performance, it is evident that the team faced formidable opponents and encountered difficulties in adapting to the high level of competition.
Despite their early exit, the experience gained from competing at the Olympic Games will be invaluable for the development of women’s football in Zambia.
The Copper Queens showed moments of promise and individual brilliance, particularly from Barbra Banda, whose goal against Germany showcased her skill and determination.
However, the team’s overall performance highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in defense and consistency.
As Zambia returns home, the focus will likely shift to building on the lessons learned from the tournament and preparing for future international competitions.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games have provided a platform for the Copper Queens to gain exposure and experience, which will be crucial for their growth as a team.
In conclusion, Zambia’s elimination from the women’s Olympic football tournament at the Paris 2024 Games underscores the challenges they faced against strong opponents like Germany.
While their campaign ended in disappointment, the experience and lessons learned will be instrumental in shaping the future of Zambian women’s football.
