The Copper Queens suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of reigning African champions South Africa in an international friendly played yesterday at the Lukas Moripe Stadium in South Africa. This marks the third loss for Zambia under the leadership of expatriate coach Nora Hauptle, highlighting ongoing tactical challenges for the national women’s team.
Second-half goals from Bongeka Gamede and Jermaine Seoposenwe sealed the victory for Banyana Banyana, who showcased their experience and composure in front of their home fans. The match, billed as a high-stakes test for both sides ahead of upcoming international fixtures, underlined the continued dominance of the South African side in women’s football on the continent.
Despite a promising first half in which the Copper Queens showed strong ball control and discipline, Zambia failed to convert their possession into goals. Coach Nora Hauptle reflected on the performance with visible disappointment, citing lapses in concentration and tactical missteps as key factors in the defeat.
“I think the first half belonged to us. We had good control of the game, unfortunately, we missed our chances. In the second half, it was an open game but we conceded from a set piece and that always hurts,” Hauptle explained.
The loss exposed some vulnerabilities in Zambia’s defensive organization, particularly on set plays—an area Banyana Banyana expertly exploited. Jermaine Seoposenwe, who has consistently been a threat for South Africa, capped the match with a well-timed finish that put the result beyond doubt.
As the Copper Queens continue preparations for future competitions, the match provided critical lessons for the coaching staff and players alike. The Zambian side, bronze medalists at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), are seeking to solidify their position among the continent’s elite, but recent results indicate there is work to be done.
Coach Hauptle emphasized the need to sharpen tactical discipline and improve game management, particularly in high-pressure situations. “We are learning, and these kinds of matches are important for our growth. We will go back, analyze, and correct the mistakes,” she said.
Despite the setback, the Copper Queens remain a team with significant potential, boasting young talent and international experience. The focus now shifts to regrouping and building a more cohesive tactical approach that can match the intensity and quality of Africa’s top sides.
The defeat, while disappointing, serves as a valuable checkpoint in Zambia’s ongoing journey toward becoming a consistent force in women’s football.