Copper Queens Switched Off Social Media to Stay Focused – Häuptle

29.07.2026 | Football DNA

Copper Queens coach Nora Häuptle has revealed that Zambia’s secret weapon ahead of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign was eliminating distractions, including social media, to maintain maximum focus.

The Swiss tactician made the revelation after Zambia produced a stunning 6-0 victory over Egypt in their Group C opener, one of the biggest wins in the team’s WAFCON history.

Häuptle said one of her main tasks before the match was ensuring the players remained fully focused on football and avoided distractions away from the pitch.

“I demanded from my team that we have a high focus, that we really have our minds on football and not wherever, in terms of social media and whatever,” Häuptle said.

The coach praised her players for responding positively, describing the performance as mature, disciplined, and full of determination from the first whistle to the last.

She was particularly pleased that the Copper Queens continued attacking even after taking control of the match, refusing to slow down until the final minutes. She also applauded the substitutes for making an immediate impact when introduced.

Häuptle further highlighted the influence of veteran defender Racheal Nachula, describing the 40-year-old as an inspiration to the younger members of the squad.

According to the coach, Nachula continues to compete at the highest level, outperforming many younger players in fitness tests while providing valuable leadership on and off the pitch.

Looking ahead to Zambia’s next Group C fixture against Nigeria, Häuptle acknowledged that the encounter will be a tougher challenge but insisted the team will remain focused on executing their game plan.

The Copper Queens’ emphatic victory saw captain Barbra Banda score four goals, while Racheal Nachula and debutant Eneless Phiri also got on the scoresheet as Zambia moved to the top of Group C on goal difference.