08.01.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️
"I Know What We Need to Do as a Team" - Nora Häuptle
Nora Häuptle, the new head coach of Zambia's Copper Queens, has expressed confidence in her vision for the team's future. After a successful stint with Ghana's Black Queens, the Swiss tactician is now taking on the challenge of leading one of Africa's most promising women's national teams.
In an interview with Swiss publication 20 Minutes, Häuptle revealed her excitement about the potential of the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) bronze medalists. “I’m excited by the team’s enormous potential. They have regularly participated in finals but have not yet performed convincingly. I know what we need to do as a team,” she stated.
From Ghana to Zambia
Häuptle’s move to Zambia marks a significant career decision. Leaving Ghana's Black Queens, a team she had been building, was not easy. Reflecting on her departure, she said, “It wasn’t easy to give up the project. My contract was running out, and while there were discussions, a few critical pieces were missing for my success. We parted on good terms, with mutual respect.”
The Copper Queens’ new coach is stepping into big shoes. Her predecessor, Bruce Mwape, achieved unprecedented milestones for Zambia, including leading the team to:
The Africa Cup of Nations in 2018, 2022, and 2025
Back-to-back Olympic Games (2020 and 2024)
The team’s first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance in 2023
Despite these achievements, Häuptle is confident in her ability to take the team to greater heights, particularly in the tactical department.
Unleashing the Copper Queens’ Potential
With a three-year contract, Häuptle aims to address tactical issues and improve the Copper Queens' consistency on the global stage. Zambia boasts some of the world’s most sought-after female players, including Racheal Kundananji and Barbra Banda, who are among the most expensive transfers in women’s football history.
Häuptle views these star players as assets. “It’s a big challenge and an opportunity to work with such personalities. I’m very much looking forward to it,” she said.
Beyond the immediate goals for the senior team, Häuptle is also keen to elevate youth football and enhance the overall structures within the Zambian Football Association. Her mission is not just about short-term success but building a sustainable system for the future.
A Journey of Passion
Having previously coached in Germany’s 1st Bundesliga, at the Swiss Football Federation (SFV), and as Israel’s national team coach, Häuptle has now found her passion in Africa. The 41-year-old’s enthusiasm for developing talent and pushing boundaries makes her a promising leader for the Copper Queens as they aim to become a dominant force in women’s football.
With her vision and Zambia’s rich talent pool, fans eagerly await the next chapter for the Copper Queens under Nora Häuptle’s guidance.
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