Zambia’s Copper Queens Eye Brighter Future Under New Coach Nora Hauptle
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has ushered in a new era for the Female national team, the Copper Queens with the appointment of Swiss tactician Nora Hauptle as head coach.
Nora is on a three-year deal, and her arrival signals FAZ’s ambition to build on Zambia’s recent successes in women’s football and propel the team to greater heights
FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga expressed confidence in Hauptle’s ability to sustain and enhance the Copper Queens’ progress.
“We are excited to announce Nora Hauptle as the new Zambia Women National Team coach. We believe she has the pedigree and profile to take us to the next level,” said Kamanga.
Hauptle’s Profile and Coaching Pedigree
A former Swiss international defender, Hauptle enjoyed a distinguished playing career before retiring in 2009. She transitioned into coaching, making waves as the only female coach in Germany’s Frauen-Bundesliga while managing SC Sand in 2020. She later served as head coach of Ghana’s Black Queens in 2022, earning a reputation for discipline and tactical acumen.
Building on Past Achievements
The Copper Queens have made remarkable strides in recent years, including winning bronze at the 2022 WAFCON, qualifying for their maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, and securing back-to-back Olympic berths for Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. Hauptle is tasked with consolidating these gains and elevating the team’s performance on the continental and global stages.
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The Transition and Future Prospects
Hauptle’s appointment also marks a smooth transition, with her predecessor Bruce Mwape moving into a developmental role within FAZ. Mwape’s contributions since 2018 have been instrumental in transforming the team into continental contenders.
His progression to a CAF Pro License program under FAZ’s partnership with the Royal Morocco Federation underscores Zambia’s long-term commitment to coaching development.
Upcoming Challenges
Hauptle’s immediate task will be preparing the Copper Queens for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), scheduled for July 2025 in Morocco. With the team already qualified, the focus shifts to improving tactical cohesion, player development, and mental strength ahead of the tournament.
A New Dawn for Zambian Women’s Football
As Hauptle prepares to take the reins, expectations are high for her to blend experience, innovation, and resilience to lead Zambia’s women’s football team to sustained success. With a
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