Zambia’s Copper Queens have entered the final stretch of their preparations for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a locally based training camp that brings together 28 players under head coach Nora Häuptle. The camp marks a key phase in the team’s build-up as they sharpen tactics, assess squad depth and finalise combinations ahead of the continental tournament in Morocco. Häuptle has mixed locally based talent with selected foreign-based players whose leagues are currently on recess, creating a competitive environment for selection. The focus of the camp is clear, performance will determine who makes the final squad. Zambia is aiming to build momentum at the right time before facing some of Africa’s strongest teams.
The Copper Queens are scheduled to face Algeria, who are also WAFCON-bound, in two friendly matches next month. These fixtures will serve as an important test of readiness before the team jets out to Morocco for the main tournament. The local camp is expected to act as a final audition for players hoping to convince the technical bench. Häuptle will use this period to evaluate fitness, chemistry and tactical discipline across all departments. With the final squad yet to be named, competition for places remains intense and every training session carries significant weight.
Several notable players have been included in the provisional setup, strengthening both experience and depth within the squad. Midfielder Hellen Chanda returns to the team, adding creativity and stability in the middle of the park. Striker Ivy Nambeye, who is now fully fit and playing for Nchanga Queens, has also been recalled and is expected to boost attacking options. Other attacking names such as Penelope Mulubwa and Eneless Phiri have been included, with Phiri returning after missing recent FIFA window engagements. A standout inclusion is 14-year-old goalkeeper Winfridah Mutale, highlighting the coaching staff’s willingness to invest in young talent for long-term development.
The squad reflects a blend of domestic and international experience across all departments. Some foreign-based players have been included in the local camp, while others will join later due to ongoing club commitments. The defensive unit features experienced names such as Margaret Belemu of Red Arrows and Thelma Chellah of Zanaco Ladies, alongside international-based players like Siomala Mapepa and Martha Tembo. The midfield group includes Natasha Nanyangwe, Blessings Zulu and Hellen Chanda, while also featuring Evarine Katongo, who plays in Israel. This mix gives Häuptle multiple tactical options as she shapes her preferred system ahead of the tournament.
Zambia enters WAFCON 2026 in Morocco with high expectations after consistent growth on the continental stage. The Copper Queens are placed in Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, Egypt and Malawi, a group that promises high-intensity competition. Only the top two teams will advance to the knockout stage, making every match critical from the start. The tournament will run from July 25 to August 16, 2026, with teams competing not only for continental glory but also for qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027. The top four finishers at WAFCON will earn automatic qualification, raising the stakes even higher for all participating nations.
As preparations intensify, the technical bench is focused on building cohesion and ensuring tactical clarity across the squad. Häuptle’s approach emphasizes discipline, structure and adaptability, especially against top-ranked opposition. The inclusion of both experienced players and emerging talents reflects a long-term strategy aimed at sustaining competitiveness beyond the current tournament cycle. The upcoming friendlies against Algeria will provide a clear indication of where the team stands in terms of readiness. Players understand that every opportunity in camp could define their place in the final squad list.
The Copper Queens now face a decisive period where selection, form and fitness will shape their WAFCON journey. With a balanced squad and strong preparation schedule, Zambia is aiming to improve on previous performances and challenge for a deeper run in the tournament. The combination of local talent and international experience offers a strong platform for success if properly executed. As the countdown to Morocco continues, focus remains on unity, execution and consistency. The final squad announcement will mark the end of this evaluation phase and the start of Zambia’s push for continental success.