Nora Häuptle Confident Copper Queens Can Upset Nigeria in Crucial WAFCON Clash
Copper Queens head coach Nora Häuptle believes Zambia has what it takes to overcome Nigeria when the two sides meet in a decisive Group C encounter at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Zambia heads into the match full of confidence after opening its campaign with a commanding 6-0 victory over Egypt. Another three points would guarantee the Copper Queens a place in the quarterfinals and strengthen their bid for continental glory.
Standing in their way are the Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women’s national team, who are looking to recover after a shock 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening fixture.
Häuptle: We Always Play to Win
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated showdown, Häuptle dismissed suggestions that Zambia would be content with a draw, insisting her team approaches every match with victory as the only objective.
“Playing for a draw is not part of our mentality. This team always goes onto the pitch with the intention of winning and taking the initiative,” Häuptle said.
The Swiss coach also reflected on Zambia’s heavy 5-0 defeat to Nigeria in the quarterfinals of the previous WAFCON, saying the Copper Queens have developed significantly since that encounter.
“We learned a lot from that match. Since then, we’ve become more tactically flexible and improved in several areas. We have made adjustments that could surprise Nigeria this time around.”
Confidence Growing in the Zambian Camp
Häuptle expressed confidence in her players’ ability to rise to the occasion and produce another impressive display against one of Africa’s traditional powerhouses.
“I have complete belief in this group. The players have prepared well, and I’m confident they will deliver another strong performance,” she added.
The Copper Queens currently lead Group C after their emphatic win over Egypt, edging Malawi on goal difference. Nigeria and Egypt remain without points after suffering defeats in their opening matches.
Victory for Zambia would not only secure qualification for the knockout stages but also represent another major statement of intent from a side determined to challenge for its first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
