Zambia’s Shepolopolo head coach, Nora Elizabeth Hauptle, has stressed the importance of detailed preparation as her side looks ahead to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, NigeriaSoccernet.com can report.
Reacting to the outcome of the tournament draw on Friday, the Swiss tactician made it clear that Zambia intends to approach the competition with a well-structured plan built around quality friendly matches and tactical development.
Hauptle explained that her technical crew is already focused on laying the groundwork for a competitive campaign, using preparatory games to refine strategy and improve cohesion within the squad.
“Yeah, I think we’re going to prepare properly, putting some good friendly games on the pitch to develop a strong strategy,” she said.
The Zambian coach also acknowledged the pedigree of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, who are the most successful team in the history of the competition, but insisted that her side will embrace the challenge with ambition rather than fear.
“Nigeria, of course, are multiple-time champion of this tournament. We see our position as always trying to hunt, to chase. We’re going to prepare well,” Hauptle added.
Zambia has been drawn in the same group as Nigeria for WAFCON 2026, setting up a high-profile clash between the reigning champions and one of Africa’s fastest-rising women’s football nations. Hauptle’s comments underline Shepolopolo’s determination to test themselves against the continent’s elite and continue their upward trajectory in women’s football.
With preparations set to intensify in the coming months, Zambia will be hoping that careful planning and competitive exposure will put them in a strong position to challenge established powers when the tournament kicks off in Morocco.