Former Black Queens boss Nora Hauptle is making headlines once again—this time in Zambian colors—as she celebrated her maiden victory with the Copper Queens at the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). On Wednesday, Hauptle’s tactical brilliance inspired Zambia to a thrilling 3-2 comeback win over Senegal in Group A.

After an intense 2-2 draw with host nation Morocco in the tournament opener, Zambia knew that a win was crucial to their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage. However, their match against the Teranga Lionesses got off to a shaky start when Nguenar Ndiaye struck early for Senegal, scoring just five minutes into the game.

But the Copper Queens didn’t fold. Star forward Barbra Banda, assisted by Rachel Kundananji, pulled Zambia level in the 12th minute with a composed finish. The match remained finely poised at halftime, but the Zambians returned stronger in the second half.

Rachel Kundananji fired them ahead in the 51st minute before Banda completed her brace in the 74th. Although Senegal managed to cut the deficit through a second goal by Ndiaye—this time from the penalty spot—it wasn’t enough to deny Zambia a well-deserved three points.

The win marks an important milestone for Coach Hauptle, who has quickly found her footing with Zambia at her first WAFCON. Up next, she will lead her side into a decisive final group match against DR Congo.