Nora Elizabeth Häuptle has sensationally stepped aside from her duties as Copper Queens head coach ahead of the FIFA Series in Brazil, issuing a powerful statement calling for urgent structural reforms in Zambian women’s football.
In a message anchored on the values of Love, Unity and Passion, Häuptle revealed that despite Zambia’s recent success on the pitch, there are growing internal concerns about whether the current environment can sustain long-term progress.
“Planting trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”
The Swiss tactician described the past year as challenging, marked by leadership changes at the Football Association of Zambia and the postponement of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, a key qualifier for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Despite these setbacks, Häuptle acknowledged that the team has continued to deliver results and make the nation proud. However, she warned that deeper issues threaten to undermine future success.
10-POINT MANIFESTO FOR SUCCESS
Häuptle disclosed that she has submitted a detailed report outlining 10 key pillars required to build a sustainable and competitive Copper Queens setup.
Among the critical areas highlighted are:
- Increased exposure to high-level international matches
- Improved administrative efficiency, including visas and travel logistics
- Stronger internal structures and decision-making within FAZ
- Investment in technology and performance analysis
- Better remuneration and budgeting frameworks
She emphasized that consistent high standards off the pitch are essential to achieving results on it.
“CHANGE IS NON-NEGOTIABLE”
Driven by what she termed as love for Zambian football, Häuptle insisted that meaningful change is the only way forward.
“Passion requests 100% commitment… a little bit less effort is not enough to be successful at the highest level,” she stated, warning that other African nations are rapidly improving in women’s football.
She further called for the establishment of a comprehensive Zambian Women’s Football Strategy to ensure the country remains competitive on the continental and global stage.
UNITY CALL TO STAKEHOLDERS
Häuptle also stressed the importance of unity among all stakeholders, urging administrators, technical staff and leadership to prioritise the players and the long-term vision of the game.
“It is our duty to leave a legacy for all upcoming footballers in Zambia,” she added.
STEPS ASIDE AHEAD OF FIFA SERIES
In a dramatic move to underline the seriousness of her concerns, Häuptle confirmed she will not travel with the team for the FIFA Series in Brazil, instead making herself available for further dialogue with FAZ leadership.
The Copper Queens are set to open their campaign against Canada tonight before facing hosts Brazil and later the South Korea women’s national team.
I said it that I don’t see anything serious about this administration moving women football forward,. This group of football administrators composed of KB boys are stingy when it comes to spending especially on WF. As a group they lack focus as to what they need to attain at the end of the day apart from football deals.
They lack exposure and the quality they should aim for in building WF.