In a bold move to strengthen their women’s football program, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has announced the appointment of Swiss coach Nora Hauptle as the new head coach of the Copper Queens. The deal, confirmed on Saturday, January 4, 2025, will see Hauptle at the helm until 2028.

Hauptle, a former Swiss international and seasoned coach, succeeds Bruce Mwape, who has been reassigned to FAZ’s developmental programs while pursuing his CAF Pro License. Her first major test as Zambia’s coach will come in July at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Hauptle’s impressive résumé includes a stint as the head coach of Ghana’s Black Queens, where she played a pivotal role in returning the team to the WAFCON after a five-year absence. Under her guidance, Ghana also came within one match of qualifying for the Olympic Games for the first time in their history.

“Coach Hauptle brings a wealth of experience from Europe and Africa. We believe she is the right person to build on the Copper Queens’ incredible achievements, including a bronze medal at the 2022 WAFCON, a debut at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and consecutive Olympic qualifications,” FAZ stated in their announcement.

The Copper Queens, who have seen a meteoric rise in women’s football, are hopeful that Hauptle will lead them to new heights. Her tactical expertise, honed in Germany’s Frauen-Bundesliga and international tournaments, is expected to propel the team further on the global stage.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s Black Queens face uncertainty, as Hauptle’s departure leaves the team without a coach just six months before the WAFCON. The Ghana Football Association must now act swiftly to ensure the team’s preparations are not derailed.