Copper Queens assistant coach Charles Haalubono says Zambia will approach their semi-final clash against Namibia with caution, warning that the Brave Gladiators remain a dangerous and well-drilled side.
Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s encounter at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Haalubono stressed that Namibia possess quality forwards capable of punishing the slightest lapse in concentration.
“This is a different fixture. We don’t have some of the players who featured in that WAFCON qualifier. We have brought in new ones, but we have kept the momentum,” Haalubono said.
Respect for a Familiar Foe
Although Zambia defeated Namibia home and away to secure qualification for WAFCON, Haalubono insists past results count for little at this stage of the competition.
“I’m sure Namibia still have most of their players. I remember many of them. If they are missing anyone, it could just be one or two,” he noted.
“In South Africa, we made individual errors and they punished us. They have very good finishers. Immediately they transition, they can finish the chances they get.”
Haalubono singled out experienced attacker Zenatha Coleman as a key threat.
“They have Coleman, a highly experienced player with very high football intelligence. She makes things happen whenever she has the ball.”
Confidence and Tactical Growth
Despite the respect shown to their opponents, Haalubono is confident Zambia can secure victory and reach a second successive final at the COSAFA Women’s Championship.
He added that the tournament has provided a valuable testing ground as the Copper Queens fine-tune preparations for WAFCON, allowing the technical bench to experiment with different tactical systems.
“We have tested all types of tactical play. We have faced teams playing long balls, teams sitting deep defensively, and teams engaging in open play. We have tested different systems,” he explained.
“So far, we have had strong competition and a good platform for our players to showcase themselves because we haven’t played an easy match.”
Players Ready for the Challenge
Defender Agness Musesa echoed her coach’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for unity and focus ahead of the semi-final.
“The mood in camp is awesome. The players are ready. We are ready,” she said.
Zambia will face Namibia in the first semi-final at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 12h00 as the Copper Queens aim to book their place in yet another regional final.
