WAFCON quarterfinal: Zambia coach declares readiness to face Nigeria
By Olaolu Joseph –
As the countdown begins for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarterfinal clash between Nigeria and Zambia, Copper Queens head coach Nora Häuptle has declared her team’s readiness for the challenge.
Zambia is set to face tournament favourites, Nigeria’s Super Falcons, in a high-stakes match on Friday. Häuptle, however, is brimming with confidence and believes her side can stand toe-to-toe with the nine-time champions.
The Copper Queens have been one of the standout teams in Morocco so far, going unbeaten in Group A with two wins and a draw—an impressive showing that has boosted their tournament credentials.
Speaking after their win over the Democratic Republic of Congo, Häuptle praised her squad’s discipline and composure throughout the group stage.
“We had a very stable and mature performance today,” the Swiss coach said. “We stayed compact and scored early. We never lost control of the game.”
With five full days to rest and prepare, Häuptle believes her team is now in an ideal position to recover and study their next opponents thoroughly.
“If you want to win this tournament, you have to beat the best. We’re ready for anyone — even Nigeria,” she said.
