Copper Queens Name Final Squad for South Africa Friendlies Ahead of WAFCON Preparations
Zambia Women’s National Team coach Nora Hauptle has announced her final 24-member squad for the upcoming international friendly series in South Africa as part of the team’s preparations for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka on Monday, Hauptle confirmed that the squad will feature a strong contingent of foreign-based players who missed the recent tour to China. The friendly series, which includes games against Botswana and South Africa, will run from May 28 to June 3, 2025, and is seen as a key component of the Copper Queens’ roadmap toward continental glory.
Focused Preparations for WAFCON 2025
Coach Nora Hauptle emphasized that this international series is more than just friendly matches — it is a strategic opportunity to strengthen the team, test tactical systems, and integrate all key players ahead of July’s WAFCON tournament.
“This camp gives us a chance to work with foreign-based players who couldn’t make it to China. It’s about building cohesion and ensuring everyone understands the WAFCON assignment,” Hauptle said.
The Swiss coach admitted that the defensive unit remains a concern but revealed that the technical team is working tirelessly to consolidate the squad in all departments.
Players Urged to Understand the “South Africa Assignment”
Hauptle didn’t mince words when she challenged the players selected to fully commit to the assignment in South Africa.
“This is a serious project. Every player must come ready to represent the country and prove their understanding of what is required as we prepare for WAFCON,” she stated.
She added that the team is steadily adapting to the desired playing philosophy and that the upcoming matches will allow for further tactical synchronization.
Possible Egypt Camp in the Works
In a forward-thinking move, Hauptle also expressed the importance of continuing preparations beyond South Africa, suggesting a potential training camp in Egypt with two additional friendly matches on the horizon.
“If logistics allow, we want to continue with a camp in Egypt after South Africa. Playing more top-level international friendlies will help us refine our tactics and mental readiness for WAFCON.”
This proactive approach reflects the growing ambition of the Copper Queens to build on recent successes and aim for a deep run at the upcoming continental championship.
Squad to Depart Tuesday
The 24-member squad is expected to depart Zambia on Tuesday for the friendly series hosted by the South African Football Association. The series will see the Copper Queens take on South Africa and Botswana, two familiar foes in African women’s football.
These matches provide a critical chance to evaluate player combinations, game management strategies, and squad depth — all crucial as Zambia prepares to challenge the continent’s elite.
Copper Queens WAFCON Outlook
Zambia’s women’s team has seen a significant rise under Coach Hauptle, including a semifinal finish at the 2022 WAFCON and qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. As the 2025 tournament nears, the FAZ and coaching staff are determined to leave nothing to chance.
With a blend of seasoned internationals and rising stars, Zambia will be looking to better their previous performance and potentially compete for their first-ever WAFCON title.
