The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President, Andrew Kamanga has proudly congratulated the Under-17 Women's National Team on their historic qualification for the FIFA World Cup in the Dominican Republic. Zambia secured their spot by holding Morocco to a 0-0 draw in Berkane, advancing 3-1 on aggregate. This achievement marks a significant milestone for women's football in Zambia. “On behalf of myself and the executive committee, I wish to salute the under-17 girls for their qualification to the Dominican Republic FIFA World Cup. It is yet again an example of the heights our women’s game has soared to,” Kamanga said. “The conscious decision we took just after taking office in 2016 to invest in grassroots football for both women and men has evidently borne fruits.” Additionally, Kamanga highlighted the success of Zambia's women's football, noting the Under-17 team's achievement adds to the senior women’s national team’s qualifications for the Olympics in 2020 and 2024, and the historic FIFA World Cup appearance in 2023. “While our senior women national team are thriving, we are even happier that the junior teams are following suit which gives us greater hope for the future. Our 10-year strategic plan is no doubt clear about the growth of youth teams for both men and women,” he added. “It may be too early to talk about preparations for the World Cup but we will do what we have now made customary to give our teams quality preparations.” He also expressed gratitude to the Zambian public for their unwavering support. The FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will be held in the Dominican Republic from October 16 to November 3, 2024, with 16 teams competing, including three from Africa. This marks Zambia's return to the U-17 World Cup stage after their last appearance in Costa Rica in 2014.