Former Zambia women’s national team head coach Charles Bwale believes the Copper Queens have enough experience to challenge for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, insisting anything less than a semifinal finish would be a disappointment.
Bwale says the squad has the right blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent, with senior players expected to play a key role in guiding the younger members of the team during the tournament.
“The team is well balanced with energy and experience, such as Kabange Mupopo and Rachel Nachula. These players have seen it all and will be crucial in guiding players like Chipasula,” he noted.
“In women’s football, experience is vital; looking at how South Africa clinched their first WAFCON trophy, some of their players were advanced in age but played a big role.”
He challenged the players to rise to the occasion, saying, “I think we have enough experience, and anything less than a semifinal appearance will be a failure on the side of the players.”
“These are the same players that have played in two Olympics and made a world cup appearance; I think that is enough for Zambia to fight for the title. It also has to do with the mentality; I urged them to approach this tournament like it is their last.”
Nora praised for trusting young players
Bwale also praised head coach Nora Häuptle for giving younger players an opportunity to stake a claim for places in the final squad during the team’s pre-tournament friendlies against Algeria.
Zambia are in Algeria for the final phase of their preparations for WAFCON and drew 1-1 with the hosts in the first friendly on Sunday. The two teams meet again tonight in their final warm-up match before the tournament.
In the first encounter, Häuptle handed starts to youngsters Mwila Mufunte and Mercy Chipasula. Chipasula rewarded the coach’s faith by opening the scoring in the 47th minute, while Mufunte was sent off in the 87th minute after conceding the penalty that allowed Algeria to equalise.
Bwale believes the friendly gave the youngsters valuable experience ahead of the continental showpiece.
