Zambia women’s national football team head coach Nora Häuptle says her squad is ready to take on any challenge that comes their way as they head into the quarterfinals of the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), currently taking place in Morocco.
The Copper Queens booked their place in the last eight with a gritty 1-0 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday night at El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia. The narrow but crucial victory was enough to see them secure second place in Group A with seven points, marking only the second time in the team’s history that they’ve reached the WAFCON quarterfinals.
Häuptle, speaking after the match, lauded the determination and spirit of her players, stating that the team has shown maturity, tactical discipline, and the hunger needed to succeed on Africa’s biggest women’s football stage. “We are fully prepared to face any opponent in the quarterfinals. This team has worked hard, and we’re going into the next match with focus and belief,” she affirmed.
The match-winner came courtesy of star striker Racheal Kundananji, who lived up to expectations with a powerful finish that broke the deadlock and ultimately handed Zambia a deserved win. Her performance not only earned three points but also gave the Copper Queens the momentum they need heading into the knockout phase.
Zambia’s journey in the group stage has been impressive, with the team showing both defensive grit and attacking intent throughout the tournament. With confidence building and a growing sense of belief within the squad, the Copper Queens are shaping up to be one of the dark horses of the tournament.
As the knockout rounds approach, all eyes will be on Häuptle’s charges to see whether they can continue their historic run and push even further. For now, Zambia’s women are focused, fired up, and ready to write a new chapter in their footballing story.