The Zambia Women’s National Team, popularly known as the Copper Queens, is ready to begin its TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign with confidence as they prepare to face Egypt in their Group C opening match in Rabat, Morocco. Head coach Nora Häuptle has expressed complete confidence in her squad ahead of the much-anticipated encounter, saying every player is fit and prepared for selection. The tournament represents another important opportunity for Zambia to showcase its continued growth in women’s football and compete against some of Africa’s strongest national teams. A positive result in the opening fixture could provide the momentum needed for a successful group stage campaign. With thorough preparations completed, the Copper Queens are focused on delivering a disciplined and high-quality performance against Egypt.
Speaking during the official pre-match press conference at the Moulay Hassan Stadium on Monday, Häuptle confirmed that all 25 players in the squad are healthy and available for selection. Having a fully fit squad gives the coaching staff greater flexibility in choosing the strongest lineup and making tactical adjustments throughout the match. The absence of injuries is particularly encouraging as Zambia enters one of the continent’s biggest football tournaments, where squad depth often plays a crucial role. Häuptle noted that every player is eager to begin the competition and has shown strong commitment throughout the preparation period. The positive fitness update has boosted confidence within the camp ahead of the opening whistle.
Despite acknowledging Egypt’s football history and reputation, Häuptle made it clear that Zambia’s primary focus remains on its own preparations and style of play. She described Egypt as a respected football nation that should never be underestimated but stressed that the Copper Queens are concentrating on executing their own game plan. According to the coach, the team has experience in managing the pressure and excitement that comes with opening matches in major tournaments. She added that the players have remained calm while building the right level of energy and focus for the important fixture. This balanced mindset reflects a team determined to approach the match with confidence rather than anxiety.
The Copper Queens have spent the past several weeks refining their tactical approach in preparation for the tournament. Häuptle explained that the coaching staff has placed significant emphasis on creating space, maintaining possession and ensuring the team can adapt effectively during different phases of the game. Modern international football often requires teams to respond quickly to changing situations, making tactical flexibility an essential quality. Zambia’s preparations have therefore focused on improving both attacking movements and defensive organization while maintaining the team’s established playing identity. These adjustments are expected to help the Copper Queens compete effectively against different styles of opposition throughout the tournament.
Another important part of Zambia’s preparations has involved detailed analysis of Egypt’s strengths and weaknesses. Häuptle revealed that her technical team has carefully studied the opposition to better understand how they play and identify areas where Zambia can create opportunities. Thorough opponent analysis has become a key component of modern football because it allows coaches to develop strategies based on detailed information rather than assumptions. Understanding Egypt’s tactical approach, defensive organization and attacking threats will help the Copper Queens make informed decisions during the match. Combined with Zambia’s own preparations, this analysis gives the team greater confidence heading into the opening fixture.
One of Häuptle’s strongest messages before the tournament has been the importance of focusing on performance rather than becoming overly concerned with the final score. She emphasized that when the team performs according to its identity and executes its game plan effectively, positive results are more likely to follow naturally. This philosophy encourages players to remain disciplined, trust their preparation and avoid unnecessary pressure during crucial moments. Maintaining possession, creating quality scoring opportunities and defending as a united team remain central to Zambia’s approach. By concentrating on consistent performances, the Copper Queens hope to build confidence as the tournament progresses.
Captain Barbra Banda echoed the coach’s confidence while emphasizing that responsibility now rests with the players to deliver on the field. Banda praised the technical bench for preparing the squad thoroughly and said the team is fully focused on the opening match against Egypt. She explained that every player understands the importance of making a strong start while remaining committed to taking one match at a time. The experienced forward highlighted the determination within the squad and the shared ambition of representing Zambia proudly throughout the competition. Her leadership will be particularly important in guiding younger players through the pressures of a major continental tournament.
Banda’s comments also reflect the strong unity that has developed within the Copper Queens camp. Successful international teams often rely not only on tactical preparation but also on teamwork, trust and collective determination. Zambia has steadily established itself as one of Africa’s leading women’s football nations through consistent development and strong performances on the continental stage. The current squad combines experienced players with emerging talent, creating a balanced group capable of competing with the best teams in Africa. That blend of experience and youthful energy could prove to be one of Zambia’s greatest strengths during the tournament.
The Group C clash between Zambia and Egypt is scheduled to kick off at 19:00 Zambian time at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. As the Copper Queens prepare to take the field, expectations are high that the team can begin its WAFCON campaign on a positive note through a disciplined and confident performance. Nora Häuptle’s belief in her fully fit squad, combined with careful tactical preparation and detailed opponent analysis, has created a strong foundation for success. Captain Barbra Banda and her teammates understand the importance of turning those preparations into results on the pitch while remaining focused on one match at a time. If Zambia delivers the performance envisioned by its coaching staff, the Copper Queens will give themselves an excellent opportunity to launch a successful Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign.