Zambia U-17 qualified after battling to a 1-1 draw with Ethiopia in the final round, second-leg qualifier.
The result sealed a 3-2 aggregate victory and booked Zambia’s place at a third consecutive global showpiece.
Playing under pressure at Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, the Copper Princesses showed the composure of champions.
Zambia drew first blood early in the second half. Precious Mwewa struck in the 46th minute to extend the aggregate lead and put the hosts on the back foot.
The Copper Princesses kept pressing in search of a second goal, controlling possession and refusing to sit back.
Ethiopia threw everything forward late, and Mihiret Ayele Abebe equalised in the 88th minute to level matters on the day.
But it was too little, too late. Zambia stood firm in the final minutes to protect their aggregate advantage and see the job through.
Assistant Coach Naomi Phiri praised her girls for fighting until the end to secure the much-needed qualification.
”We are proud of the girls. They showed character and determination. We came here with one objective and we achieved it,” Phiri said during a post-match interview.
Midfielder Lillian Mwenda was also quick to note that the game was tough, but the team followed the coach’s instructions and played as one.
“It was not an easy game, but we stuck to the game plan and worked for each other. This is for Zambia,” Mwenda said.
Since making their World Cup debut in 2014, the Copper Princesses have now qualified for three straight editions of the tournament.
U-17 WWQ: Zambia draw with Ethiopia, qualify
46
