Zambia head coach Nora Häuptle has made her ambitions clear on the eve of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, declaring her team’s intention to compete for the title as the Copper Queens prepare to face host nation Morocco in the tournament opener.
Addressing the media at a pre-match press conference on Friday, Häuptle offered a bold assessment of her squad’s readiness and determination.
Her remarks sent a strong message to the rest of the field ahead of the highly anticipated clash in Rabat on Saturday, July 5.
“We want to come here to chase,” said the Swiss-born coach, underscoring the hunger within her camp. “I think we’re all very hungry—the players and I—to chase a title.
Let’s see how our starting performance is tomorrow. It’s always very important that we live our values.”
This year’s competition marks the 15th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with Morocco hosting the tournament from July 5 to July 26.
Zambia’s Copper Queens, who have seen significant growth on the continental stage in recent years, head into the opening match brimming with belief and renewed ambition under Häuptle’s leadership.
Since taking charge, Häuptle has introduced a highly structured and dynamic style of play, blending technical precision with physical resilience.
Her methods have resonated with the players, who now carry the confidence of a side looking to improve on their past performances and write a new chapter in Zambian football history.
The Copper Queens’ growing stature in African women’s football has been evident through recent competitive outings, including a historic qualification for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a strong showing in regional tournaments.
With several players gaining experience in top leagues across the globe, the Zambian squad arrives in Morocco with a balance of youth and seasoned talent.
As hosts, Morocco are expected to present a formidable challenge in front of a passionate home crowd. The clash between the two sides is already being billed as a crucial tone-setter for both nations.
For Zambia, however, it is an opportunity to showcase their evolution as a footballing force and put their title ambitions into motion.
Häuptle’s focus on discipline, team unity, and a clear identity has created a cohesive unit capable of going toe-to-toe with the continent’s elite.
Her comments ahead of kickoff reflect a mentality that is not just content with participation, but one that is driven by a genuine aspiration to win.
The 2024 Women’s AFCON, which CAF has pledged will be the most successful in its history, offers an expanded platform for teams like Zambia to shine.
With greater media coverage and increased global attention on African women’s football, this tournament presents a vital moment of recognition and opportunity for players and coaches alike.
As the Copper Queens take to the pitch in Rabat for the tournament’s opening fixture, all eyes will be on Häuptle’s side to see whether they can match their coach’s words with action. For Zambia, the message is loud and clear—they are not just here to compete, they are here to conquer.
