Copper Queens Coach Outlines WAFCON Preparations After Group C Draw
Zambia’s Copper Queens are gearing up for a challenging WAFCON 2026 campaign after being drawn in Group C alongside 10-time champions Nigeria, Egypt, and Malawi. Head coach Nora Häuptle has shared insights into the team’s preparations and ambitious plans to make a mark in Morocco.
Speaking in a recent interview, Häuptle revealed that the squad is currently in the first phase of preparation, a local pre-camp. She highlighted that 38 players are being monitored, including nine based abroad, while two players remain sidelined due to ACL injuries.
“With all the others, we started well, the mood is good, and we are focusing on three objectives: fitness, defense, and tactical flexibility,” Häuptle said.
The Copper Queens are emphasizing physical conditioning, with endurance and yo-yo tests to guide their training. Defensively, the team aims to reduce the 1.7 goals per game conceded last year, while maintaining their strong scoring form, averaging two goals per match. Tactically, Häuptle is preparing two variable game plans, partly with an eye on the World Cup.
The coach also revealed her commitment to integrating youth talent into the senior setup. Seven under-20 players have been called up, giving them exposure while also allowing them to return for the U-20 World Cup qualifiers.
Reflecting on the group draw, Häuptle expressed confidence despite the tough competition:
“I adore this group. It’s the toughest, but as a coach, I always want to play against the best. Facing Nigeria first will lift us and ensure we are ready 100 percent from the beginning.”
She stressed the importance of high-level preparation, including participation in the 2026 FIFA Series in Brazil, where Zambia will face Brazil, Canada, and Korea Republic during the March, April international window.
Häuptle also shared the team’s long-term ambitions: qualifying for the World Cup by reaching the WAFCON semi-finals and ultimately winning the continental trophy.
“We live and dream with pure passion. We believe we belong at the World Cup stage and continue working tirelessly toward our mission: copper to gold,” she said.
The preparation plan is divided into four steps:
- Local pre-camp to monitor players and build fitness.
- International window in February, featuring at least three high-level friendlies.
- 10-day camp in Morocco with closed-door matches to finalize team shape.
- Kick-off of the WAFCON tournament.
Häuptle concluded by thanking fans for their support and encouraging them to travel to Morocco to cheer on the Copper Queens.
“Everywhere I go, I feel the love from our fans. We will give it back on the pitch,” she said.
With a blend of experience, youth, and high-level preparation, Zambia looks poised to challenge the continent’s best in this year’s WAFCON.
