FULLTIME DAILY – 17.09.26

Today’s Full-Time Zambia leads with growing questions over the Chipolopolo’s preparations for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers, with football analyst Maria Banda calling for stronger player combinations and continuity ahead of crucial clashes against Algeria and Togo.

Copper Queens captain Barbra Banda, meanwhile, has committed her future to Orlando Pride until 2029 and is targeting more trophies after a prolific spell in the NWSL. Zambia’s Junior Chipolopolo have also set their sights on a record-extending 13th COSAFA U20 title as they head into the tournament in Mozambique, while former Zambia youth international Milimo Nalumango has been cleared to represent South Africa.

Former Chipolopolo winger Clifford Mulenga is also calling for a stronger youth development pathway to ensure talented players are continuously monitored from U15 through to the senior national team.

Away from football, Zambia’s senior women’s handball team made it two wins from two with a massive 51–9 victory over Eswatini, while Manchester United suffered a dramatic Carabao Cup exit after Brighton overturned a two-goal deficit at Old Trafford.