COPPER QUEENS READY TO SHINE AT WAFCON – NORA HÄUPTLE

21.01.2025 | Football DNA

Zambia Women’s National Team head coach Nora Häuptle has expressed strong confidence in her squad’s readiness to make a bold statement at the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) to be staged in Morocco.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Häuptle outlined her key focus areas as fitness, defensive organisation and tactical flexibility. With nine players actively competing abroad and two players, Ochumba Lumbanji and Fridah Mukoma, currently sidelined by injury, the coach believes careful preparation is essential.

Reflecting on the team’s recent performances, Häuptle noted that while the Copper Queens averaged two goals per game last year, conceding 1.7 goals per match remains an area of concern. She revealed that the technical bench has mapped out a four-step preparation plan, with the team currently in the first phase – a local camp involving 38 players.

The squad includes seven Under-20 players, whose inclusion has excited the coach. Häuptle praised the young talents for their energy and quality, stating that she is keen to see some of them earn a place in the final tournament squad.

Zambia has been drawn in Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, as well as Malawi and Egypt. Despite being labelled a “group of death,” Häuptle remains upbeat and fearless about the challenge ahead. She believes the tough competition will bring out the best in her players and raise the team’s overall performance.

Beyond WAFCON, the Copper Queens’ broader ambition is qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Häuptle has set her sights on a top-four finish at the tournament and made it clear that winning the WAFCON title is a long-term objective.

As part of preparations, Zambia will play a series of friendly matches, including one against a highly ranked opponent, before travelling to Morocco. Häuptle emphasised the importance of staying focused on daily tasks, managing pressure, and maintaining composure.

With expectations high, the coach says the team is motivated not only to satisfy the fans but also to meet their own standards. Hungry for success, the Copper Queens are determined to transform their ambition into reality as they chase continental glory.