BARBRA BANDA ON TOKYO 2020: WE DID WELL AS A TEAM

By Saasa Munalula | July 27, 2021

Courageous Copper Queens narrowly lost by 1-0 to Brazil having played the majority of the match with 10 players after losing Lushomo Mweemba to a 13th-minute red card.

The result condemned Africa’s sole representatives to a group stage exit from the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Tokyo 2020.

Speaking after the game, Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda took note of the positives.

“I think we had a good game. We were hoping to get the three points in this game,” the Olympic hat-trick record-breaker said. “But it’s unfortunate we have lost the game.”

“We are still confident as a team. I think we played a very good game. We were nine [following the red card] but we tried to contain them, which we did well as a team.”

Banda was quick to arrest the transfer speculations that have gained momentum as a result of her sensational Olympic debut.

“Well, I think I have no say about that. It’s not my business. It’s about my manager and the management that is managing me. For me, I just have to do my work.”

The Copper Queens captain took time to discuss lessons drawn from the Olympic outing and state that the future is promising for the youthful Zambia women’s national football team.

“I’ve learned a lot and got a different experience from the teams we have played. They are top-class teams and very disciplined in the way that they play.”

“In our team, I think we are coming up as a good team. It’s a team of youngsters who are doing well. So, in the coming years, we still maintain the same team.”

Banda went to disclose that she dedicates her historical achievement to the late first Republican President of Zambia, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda.

The 21-year old took time to acknowledge the influence of her late father in the rise of her career.

“I remember him a lot, more especially when I am playing,” Banda remarked.

“Because he was always there for me. I am always missing him. But there’s nothing I can do. I just must be focused.”

Banda closed by stating that not only is participating in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament good exposure but also a good launchpad for upcoming young women footballers.

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