Zambia will attempt a giant killing on Saturday, July 22 when they face Japan in Hamilton in a 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup Group C fixture.

The Copper Queens are making their maiden appearance at the biggest women's football fiesta in the world whereas Japan has played in every Women's World Cup since the inception of the competition in 1991.

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Zambia booked their ticket for the Mundial after reaching the last four of the 2022 Women's AFCON. Japan also went through the qualification phase in the Asian region.

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Zambia is one of the least-ranked teams at the world cup as they are at the 77th position globally while their counterparts won the Women's World Cup in 2011. On paper, it looks to be a daunting task for Zambia. But they have a ferocious attack made up of skipper Barbara Banda, Grace Chanda, and Rachel Kundananji who plays for Real Madrid. The trio can cause havoc on any day.

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In a group comprising Costa Rica, Spain, and Japan, Zambia must go all out and get the needed results as a morale booster. Despite being ranked 77th in the world, Coach Bruce Mwappe's side believes that they have the quality to make an impression in a group that looks difficult.

Japan have an astute tactician in Futoshi Ikeda and they have been on fire prior to the world cup.

They destroyed Panama 5-0 in an international friendly match. In all, they have won four and lost one in their last five games. It is worth noting that Japan has also not tasted defeat in their opening women's world cup games. In six games, they won three and drew three.

Key players

Barbara Banda (Zambia)

The Shanghai RCD striker is the live wire of the Zambian team. She is the skipper of the sides and has been very prolific. In the three pre-world cup games against Germany, Switzerland, and Ireland, she netted three goals and provided an assist. Her partnership with Rachel Kundananji has been deadly.

Saki Kumagai (Japan)

The AS Roma Female team centre-back captains the Japanese national team. As an experienced centre-back, Saki is the leader of the team and brings stability to the side. She is noted for her timelines and ability to surge forward.