Zambia coach Albert Kachinga has named his squad for the 2017 COSAFA Women’s Championship that will be staged in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe from September 13-24.

Zambia will be among the pre-tournament favourites having twice before picked up the bronze medal in the regional championship.

They have been drawn in a tough Group A though that includes hosts Zimbabwe, Malawi and Madagascar.

Kachinga has selected a mostly young squad of players, including 17-year-old forward Barbra Banda.

But there are also players with experience like defender Jane Chalwe and 28-year-old forward Noria Sosala.

Kachingahas previously stated his team are in for a tough battle at the COSAFA Women’s Championship, but says they have as good a chance as any side and will be particularly keen to get something out of their clash with Zimbabwe on September 15.

“We have played Zimbabwe on several occasions. We have lost and we also won some games. The chances are 50-50, but with adequate preparations and with a good mind-set we can beat them,” he said.

“These days, there are no easy games; it is a fair draw. There is no team which can underrate the other. We have to work extra hard so that we can pull through. All the teams are good for them to play at the tournament.”

Only the top team in each pool and the best runner-up advance to the semifinals.

Zambia squad:

Goalkeepers: Nkhoma Chiko, Catherine Musonda, Hazel Nali

Defenders: Grace Zulu, Anita Mulenga, Annie Kibanji, Jane Chalwe, Lwendo Chisamu

Midfielders: Judith Zulu, Racheal Lungu, Rhoda Chileshe, Esther Mukwasa, Ireen Lungu, Milika Limwanya, Mary Wilombe

Strikers: Grace Chanda, Misozi Zulu, Noria Sosala, Barbra Banda, Racheal Nachula