Copper Queens coach Nora Häuptle is impressed with the way her young guns played against DR Congo on Saturday.
The Swiss coach handed full debuts to attacking duo Mercy Chipasula and Fridah Mukoma in the final group A tie at the ongoing WAFCON 2024 in Morocco.
Chipasula started on the right wing as Prisca Chilufya was rested while Mukoma replaced the suspended Grace Chanda.
While the attacking players will always get the plaudits, midfielder turned defender Mapalo Maluba has held her own alongside Lushomo Mweemba in central defence.
Maluba’s display has been assuring and given stability to the defence.
The Nchanga Rangers ace has featured in all three group matches in Morocco.
Speaking to the media after the 1-0 victory over DR Congo, Häuptle is optimistic about the three girls’ progression to international football.
“Mercy is still eligible for the under-17s. But she played with maturity today and showed great promise.
“Fridah is also a powerful young player currently on loan in China. We believe in our youth and give them the trust and minutes to grow,” Häuptle said.
The trio alongside Saliya Mwanza, Namute Chileshe and Ruth(Fridah’s sister), have been earmarked as Zambia’s symbol of future.
“I am a developer. I love integrating young players and giving them belief. Performances like today show they belong here.”
