Zambia Women’s National Team head coach Nora Elizabeth Häuptle has outlined a clear, demanding and uncompromising preparation strategy for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2026, as the Copper Queens concluded their local pre-camp following the announcement of a 38-member provisional squad.
The Swiss tactician emphasized that the current phase is not just about WAFCON participation, but about positioning Zambia for automatic qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, reserved for the tournament’s top four finishers. Her approach blends youth development, defensive restructuring, elite-level exposure, and tactical flexibility.
Speaking after the local camp, Häuptle made it clear that selection and preparation would be ruthless, detailed, and aligned with long-term objectives rather than short-term comfort.
Wide Selection Net and Clear Performance Objectives
Häuptle explained that the local pre-camp was deliberately expansive, allowing the technical bench to assess depth and mentality across the domestic game.
“Yes, we called up for the local pre-camp 38 players… including also six under-20 players. They responded very well. The training mentality was good, intensity was good, and we worked on the basics again before moving to a second plan,” she said.
The coach revealed that the camp was guided by three non-negotiable objectives. The first was fitness, with intensive conditioning sessions, fitness testing, repeated runs, and small-sided games designed to elevate physical readiness across the squad.
However, it was the second objective — defensive improvement — that Häuptle identified as the most urgent area for transformation.
Defensive Overhaul a Non-Negotiable Priority
Despite Zambia’s attacking strength, Häuptle admitted the Copper Queens’ defensive record must improve significantly if they are to compete with Africa’s elite.
“We received nearly 1.6 goals on average per game. This is too high. We need to half it. A successful team usually concedes around 0.8 goals per game,” she explained.
As a result, the camp focused heavily on box defending, collective organisation, and defensive discipline, areas Häuptle believes will define Zambia’s ability to progress deep into the tournament.
The third pillar of preparation is tactical flexibility, with the coach insisting Zambia must be capable of adapting systems and approaches depending on the opponent — a lesson reinforced by recent international tournaments.
Balancing COSAFA Commitments and World Cup Qualification
Häuptle also addressed Zambia’s approach to the COSAFA Women’s Championship, which clashes with the February FIFA international window.
“My responsibility is WAFCON and World Cup qualification. You always need to stay focused on the target you need to deliver,” she stated.
Due to scheduling conflicts, Zambia will split the squad — with international players focusing on WAFCON preparation, while a separate group competes at COSAFA.
“This gives local players a chance to improve, prove themselves, and remain ready in case of injuries,” Häuptle explained, confirming discussions are ongoing regarding the COSAFA coaching setup.
Dubai Tournament Key to Elite-Level Preparation
Central to Häuptle’s plan is a proposed high-performance tournament in Dubai, where Zambia would face top-30 ranked nations during the February window.
“In Dubai we can face the strength of opponents we need. We must test ourselves at that level,” she stressed.
The tournament would allow Zambia to simulate the intensity, tactical demands, and variety of opposition expected at WAFCON — a preparation phase Häuptle described as non-negotiable.
“We cannot compromise on this. These games are necessary,” she insisted, while awaiting financial approval.
Extensive Local Scouting and Player Monitoring
Häuptle also highlighted the depth of scouting behind her selections, revealing she personally watched over 30 local league matches last year.
“Every local player I selected, I watched at least three times. Coach Charles also faces these teams twice a year, so some players are evaluated up to five times annually,” she said.
This level of monitoring, combined with regular communication with overseas-based players, ensures informed decisions across both domestic and international pools.
Injury-wise, the coach confirmed setbacks for Fridah Mukoma and Ochumba, while awaiting medical updates on Mary Wilombe locally.
A Tough WAFCON Group and Clear Belief
Zambia have been drawn in Group C alongside Nigeria, Egypt, and Malawi, a challenge Häuptle welcomes.
“These are three completely different opponents. We need answers for all of them,” she said.
While Nigeria remain the benchmark, Häuptle insists preparation will be holistic.
“If we want to reach the semi-finals, qualify for the World Cup and win this tournament, we must be able to beat anyone,” she declared.
The Copper Queens’ historic 2023 World Cup debut continues to shape the current approach, with adaptability, defensive stability, and tactical intelligence now central pillars of Zambia’s identity.
