Copper Queens assistant coach Charles Haalubono says Zambia is determined to make a strong impression at the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as the team intensifies preparations for the continental showpiece.
The Copper Queens have departed for Algeria, where they will hold a pre-tournament training camp ahead of the competition, which will run from 26 July to 16 August in Morocco.
Haalubono believes the squad is highly motivated and ready to reward the nation for the support it has received ahead of the tournament.
Determined to Repay the Nation’s Support
Speaking before the team’s departure, Haalubono said the players and technical bench had been encouraged by the financial commitment and support shown towards the Copper Queens.
He said the squad is fully focused on delivering positive results in Morocco.
“The players are motivated by the support we have received, and we want to repay that confidence with a strong performance at the tournament.”
Haalubono added that the team is in high spirits and looking forward to the final phase of preparations.
Algeria Camp to Fine-Tune the Squad
The Copper Queens will spend two weeks in Algeria, where they are scheduled to play two international friendly matches against the North Africans.
The fixtures are expected to provide valuable preparation as Zambia fine-tunes tactics and builds match fitness before the tournament begins.
Head coach Nora Häuptle will join the squad in Algeria for the final phase of preparations after missing the local training camp in Lusaka.
Chitundu Excited for the Challenge
Copper Queens striker Avell Chitundu believes the friendly matches against Algeria will provide an important opportunity to assess the team’s readiness before the tournament.
She said the matches will help the players identify areas that need improvement while building confidence ahead of the opening game.
FAZ Confident in the Team
Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary Charles Chakatazya, who saw the team off, expressed confidence that the Algeria camp will adequately prepare the Copper Queens for WAFCON.
He said the combination of intensive training sessions and international friendlies would give the players the best possible preparation before travelling to Morocco.
Eyes on Morocco
Zambia heads into WAFCON aiming to build on recent success after winning bronze at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The tournament also carries extra significance, with the top four teams qualifying automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Drawn in Group C alongside Nigeria, Egypt and Malawi, the Copper Queens know they face a tough challenge but remain confident of competing for honours.
Conclusion
With the Algeria training camp now underway, the Copper Queens have entered the final stretch of preparations for WAFCON 2026.
Motivated by the support of the nation and determined to make Zambia proud, the squad will be hoping to arrive in Morocco fully prepared to challenge Africa’s best and secure another place on the world stage.
