The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has officially welcomed Nora Hauptle as the new head coach of the Zambia Women’s National Team, the Copper Queens. Hauptle takes over from Bruce Mwape, who has led the team since 2018.
Challenging Start for Hauptle
In a statement shared on the FAZ “President’s Corner” on Facebook and monitored by Astro TV Sport, FAZ revealed that the process of signing Hauptle had been lengthy, with social media controversies nearly derailing the deal in its early stages.
“We are happy that all the parties involved conducted themselves with utmost professionalism despite the media frenzy that threatened to scupper the deal,” the statement read.
Hauptle, a former Switzerland international defender and ex-coach of Ghana’s Black Queens, has been appointed on a three-year contract.
Tribute to Bruce Mwape
FAZ expressed gratitude to Bruce Mwape for his significant contributions to the Copper Queens during his tenure. Mwape is credited with building a strong foundation for the team, including their historic qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“We cannot thank Mwape enough for the job he has done with the Copper Queens over the years. He has no doubt provided a strong base for the incoming technical bench to build on,” FAZ said.
Mwape’s New Role
To further develop his coaching skills, Mwape will be sent to Morocco to pursue the CAF Pro License, a move that aligns with FAZ’s strategy of building capacity among local coaches. Following this, Mwape will be reassigned to work with junior teams in an advisory role.
“The long-term goal is to have local coaches manage all national teams, but we have to invest in their world-class training to prepare them for the eventual takeover,” FAZ stated.
Hauptle’s Clear Targets
FAZ has outlined specific objectives for Hauptle, with her first major task being preparation for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which is a top priority for the association.
“We have given Hauptle clear targets starting with the forthcoming Women Africa Cup of Nations that is very high on our radar,” FAZ added.
A New Chapter for the Copper Queens
Hauptle’s appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Copper Queens as they continue to build on their recent successes. FAZ remains committed to strengthening the national team and investing in local coaching talent to ensure long-term sustainability.
This marks a new era for Zambian women’s football as the Copper Queens aim to cement their place among Africa’s elite teams under Hauptle’s leadership.
