Nora Häuptle: A New Era for the Copper Queens
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has officially announced the appointment of Nora Häuptle, former Swiss national team defender, as the new head coach of the Zambia women’s national football team.
The announcement made on Friday, 24 January sees the former coach of Ghana’s Black Queens officially join the Copper Queens on a three-year contract.
An Official Presentation in Lusaka
The official presentation ceremony took place at the Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka and was attended by key figures from the Zambian Football Federation (FAZ). Among those present were President Andrew Kamanga, Vice President Justin Mumba, Colonel Priscilla Katoba, who oversees the development of women’s football within FAZ, as well as the provincial FAZ president for Lusaka, Jordan Maliti.
Secretary General Reuben Kamanga and Technical Director Lyson Zulu were also in attendance, underscoring the importance of the event.
Clear Goals for Rapid Progress
FAZ President Andrew Kamanga outlined that Nora Häuptle’s appointment is part of a strategy to advance women’s football in Zambia. Several key objectives have been set for the new coach.
"One of the main goals is to win the (TotalEnergies) CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in July, but also to qualify the team for the 2026 edition, which will serve as a stepping stone for the FIFA World Cup," said Kamanga.
Additionally, Häuptle and her technical team have been tasked with guiding the Copper Queens toward qualification for the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, a crucial step in boosting their international standing.
Strengthened and Local Technical Staff
To support Nora Häuptle, FAZ has assembled a solid technical staff. Swiss national, Philippe Hasler has been appointed as assistant coach, while local technicians Charles Haalubono and Enala Phiri complete the team.
“We decided to include local coaches within the technical staff to ensure a transfer of skills,” Kamanga explained. “It is crucial in the long term that our national teams are led by competent local coaches. To achieve this, we are investing in their training.”
Indeed, FAZ has already taken steps to enhance the capabilities of local technicians. Bruce Mwape, the former head coach of the Copper Queens, will be sent to Morocco to undergo CAF Pro training, further solidifying his expertise.
A Vision Supported by the Zambian Government
FAZ also emphasized the important role of the Zambian government, under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, in supporting the development of women’s football.
“Thanks to the President’s vision, we have expanded our partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Arts to specifically include women’s football. This appointment is part of this broader effort to promote excellence,” said Kamanga.
The expansion of this memorandum of understanding is further proof of the government’s commitment to creating opportunities for women in sport, while providing resources to achieve ambitious goals.
A Promising Future for the Copper Queens
With Nora Häuptle at the helm, the Copper Queens are beginning a new chapter. Her extensive experience, particularly as the former coach of Ghana’s Black Queens, combined with her strategic vision, brings a fresh energy to the team.
As key competitions approach, expectations are high. The TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and the Olympic Games represent crucial milestones to confirm the potential of the Copper Queens and solidify their place among the best African teams.
Zambia are placed in Group A with Morocco, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.