The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has set an ambitious target for newly appointed Copper Queens coach, Nora Hauptle, tasking her with delivering victory at the next Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The Swiss coach, who boasts an impressive résumé with stints in international football, was unveiled as the new head coach earlier this week. Her appointment comes at a critical moment for Zambia’s women’s football, which has been on an upward trajectory following the Copper Queens’ historic qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023.

A Bold Challenge

Speaking at Hauptle’s unveiling, FAZ President Andrew Kamanga emphasized the association’s confidence in her ability to take the Copper Queens to the next level. He stressed that Zambia’s growing status in African football places the team in a position to compete for the WAFCON title.

“The Copper Queens have shown their potential on the global stage. Now is the time to translate that promise into continental dominance. We believe Coach Hauptle has the vision, expertise, and passion to guide the team to a WAFCON victory,” Kamanga said.

This ambitious goal aligns with FAZ’s broader strategy of investing in women’s football to cement Zambia’s place as a powerhouse on the African continent.

Hauptle’s Vision

Coach Hauptle, who previously worked with Switzerland’s women’s national team and other European clubs, has expressed excitement about the opportunity to lead one of Africa’s most promising teams.

“I’m honored to take on this challenge with such a talented group of players. The Copper Queens have made significant strides in recent years, and I am committed to helping them achieve their full potential,” Hauptle said during her first press conference.

Hauptle also emphasized her focus on discipline, tactical awareness, and teamwork as key components of her coaching philosophy. She has already begun evaluating the squad and planning training sessions to prepare for the upcoming WAFCON qualifiers.

Zambia’s Rising Star

Zambia’s women’s team has become a symbol of hope and pride for the nation. The Copper Queens’ historic World Cup qualification in 2023 was a testament to their determination and skill. Players like Barbra Banda, the dynamic forward known for her goal-scoring prowess, and Racheal Kundananji, who continues to shine in European leagues, have inspired confidence in the team’s ability to compete at the highest level.

The Copper Queens have also shown promise in previous WAFCON tournaments, with a semifinal appearance in 2022. While they fell short of the title, their performance underscored their potential to challenge traditional African powerhouses like Nigeria, South Africa, and Cameroon.

Fans and Expectations

Fans across Zambia have expressed optimism about Hauptle’s appointment, with many believing she could be the missing piece in the team’s quest for continental glory. “We’re excited to see what the new coach brings. This is our time to shine, and with the talent we have, anything is possible,” said Chanda Mwila, a long-time Copper Queens supporter.

FAZ has assured fans of continued investment in the team, including infrastructure, training resources, and international friendlies to prepare the Copper Queens for high-stakes matches.

A Promising Future

As the countdown to WAFCON begins, the pressure is on for Nora Hauptle to deliver results. The tournament offers a significant opportunity for Zambia to assert its dominance in African women’s football, and the entire nation will be watching closely.

Can Hauptle lead the Copper Queens to their first WAFCON title? With a strong squad, dedicated coaching, and nationwide support, Zambia’s chances look brighter than ever.