The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has confirmed that Copper Queens head coach Nora Häuptle will lead the national team at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after resolving all outstanding issues surrounding her future.
Speculation had surrounded Häuptle’s position in recent weeks, but FAZ announced on Saturday that discussions between the association and FAZ president Keith Mweemba had resulted in a breakthrough.
In a statement released by Football House in Lusaka, acting deputy general secretary Iva Lengwe said the Swiss coach had already submitted her travel itinerary and was expected back in Zambia ahead of the June FIFA international window.
“As things stand at present, Coach Nora will certainly lead the Copper Queens at the forthcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament,” Lengwe said.
FAZ also confirmed that Zambia will host a Four Nations Tournament during the June FIFA window as part of preparations for WAFCON.
The tournament will feature the Copper Queens alongside Kenya, Zimbabwe and Burkina Faso.
Lengwe said the association remained focused on ensuring the team was adequately prepared for the continental finals, which are scheduled to take place in July.
He also thanked the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts and football supporters for their continued concern and support for the women’s national team during the uncertainty over Häuptle’s future.
Häuptle has overseen Zambia’s preparations for another major continental campaign as the Copper Queens seek to build on their growing reputation in African women’s football following recent appearances at both the Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games.
