Nora Hauptle Appointed Copper Queens Coach on a Three-Year Deal

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has announced the appointment of Swiss national Nora Hauptle as the head coach of the Zambia Women’s National Team, the Copper Queens. Hauptle, a former Swiss international defender, takes over the reins on a three-year contract, with her primary task being to build on the recent successes of the team.

A Bold New Chapter for the Copper Queens

In a press statement released on January 4, 2025, FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga expressed confidence in Hauptle’s ability to elevate the Copper Queens to greater heights.

“We are excited to announce the appointment of Nora Hauptle as the new Zambia Women National Team coach,” said Kamanga. “Her duty is to consolidate the gains made in our women’s game over the last few years that have seen us win bronze at the WAFCON, qualify for a maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, and secure back-to-back Olympic qualifications.”

A Coach with Proven Credentials

Hauptle enjoyed a distinguished playing career, representing Switzerland at the international level before retiring in 2009. Transitioning into coaching, she gained valuable experience, including a stint with SC Sand in Germany’s Frauen-Bundesliga, where she made history as the only female coach in the league at the time. In 2022, she took charge of Ghana’s Black Queens, further solidifying her reputation as a forward-thinking tactician.

Her appointment comes as Zambia prepares for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco in July 2025.

Bruce Mwape Reassigned to Developmental Role

FAZ also announced that Hauptle’s predecessor, Bruce Mwape, will be reassigned within the technical development program. Mwape, who has been at the helm since 2018, is credited with leading the Copper Queens to significant milestones, including their debut World Cup appearance in 2023 and qualifications for both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics.

“Bruce Mwape remains a core member of our wider technical development program. We have secured a CAF Pro License course for him as part of our collaboration with the Royal Morocco Federation,” said Kamanga. “He will become the second Zambian coach to undertake the CAF Pro License after Wedson Nyirenda.”

A Bright Future for the Copper Queens

With Hauptle at the helm and Mwape continuing to contribute to the developmental framework, FAZ is laying a solid foundation for sustained success in women’s football. Fans and stakeholders alike will be eager to see how the Copper Queens perform under their new coach as they aim to further cement their status as one of Africa’s top women’s football teams.

Upcoming Challenge: 2024 WAFCON

The Copper Queens have already qualified for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament that will serve as an early test of Hauptle’s impact on the team. With a rich blend of talent and a proven leader in charge, the future looks bright for Zambian women’s football.