By Our Correspondent

France female national team coach, Herve Renald hopes that his side does not meet debutants, Zambia in the knockout stages of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The 54 years old tactician and two-time Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON winner is not oblivious of the solid compact team the Chopper Queens will be parading at the tournament.

“I pray my Team France will not meet African Giants The Copper Queens in Knockout Stages,” the former Saudi Arabia coach said.

Herve Renard in March was appointed as the new coach of the France women’s football team after the sacking of Corinne Diacre.

The 54-year-old Renard resigned as coach of Saudi Arabia after leading them to a memorable group-stage win over Argentina at last year’s World Cup in Qatar.

Zambia are ranked 77th in the world but will fancy springing a surprise or two at the World Cup after drawing 3-3 with Switzerland and beating twice world champions Germany 3-2 in friendlies some weeks ago.

The 2022 AWCON bronze medal winners will begin their maiden World Cup campaign on 22 July against former world champions Japan.

After playing Japan at Waikato Stadium, the Zambians take on top European side Spain on July 26 in Auckland before rounding out their Group C fixtures against Costa Rica back in Hamilton on the 31st.

The ninth edition of the Women’s World Cup will start on Thursday next week with co-host New Zealand taking on Norway in the Opener.