Kuopion Palloseura goalkeeper Chana Hausen has revealed how delighted she would be to represent the Zambian women’s national team. In an exclusive interview with BolaNews, the Finland-based shot-stopper also discussed her style of play, highlighting the key strengths that define her game.
Born on August 21, 2004, in Zambia, Hausen moved to Europe as a toddler after being adopted. She was introduced to football at a young age by her grandfather, joining a youth academy called FC WILD in Kirkkonummi, Finland.
Although largely developed in Finland, the goalkeeper had a two-year stint playing in Uzbekistan as a teenager. In 2024, the then 19-year-old Hausen signed professionally for PK 35 Helsinki, where she developed into a reliable first-team player.
Owing to her performances between the sticks for PK 35 Helsinki, Finnish giants Kuopion Palloseura, alias KuPs, snapped her up in late 2025.
Hausen started out as a striker during her childhood before converting to a goalkeeper, drawing inspiration from 2006 FIFA World Cup winner Gianluigi Buffon.
When quizzed about her strongest goalkeeping attribute, she told BolaNews, “I would say I am at my best when doing reaction saves. So, reflexive goalkeeping.”
During the 2025 Kansallinen Liga, Hausen made an impressive 35 saves in 10 matches, posting a save percentage of 74.5%. To put this into perspective, the goalkeepers with the best save percentages in the 2025–26 Premier League are FIFA World Cup champion Emiliano Martinez (75.3%) and UEFA Euro winner Gianluigi Donnarumma (74.1%).
“I don’t mind either [playing out from the back or launching it forward]; I have played with both styles and feel comfortable with both. I also like to give directions and help the team as much as possible by being vocal,” she added.
‘It will be an honour to play for Zambia’ – Hausen
The 21-year-old recorded an overall pass accuracy of 77% and a long-ball accuracy of 48%, figures that place her closer to elite ball distributors like Marc-Andre ter Stegen. She also did not commit any error that led to a goal last year.
Standing at approximately 1.66 metres, Hausen said she is cautious when coming out to collect aerial balls, ensuring her anticipation and timing are spot on.
Speaking about the possibility of representing the Copper Queens, Hausen told BolaNews, “I would be incredibly honored to represent the Copper Queens. Playing for your country is one of the highest achievements in football and Zambia has a strong and growing presence in the women’s game. If given the opportunity, I’d give my absolute best to contribute to the team.”
Zambia’s performances in major international competitions have often been marred by goalkeeping errors and unconvincing shot-stopping. Hausen could therefore be a valuable addition to Nora Häuptle’s Copper Queens squad, providing healthy competition for Hazel Nali.
Pitted against Nigeria, Egypt and Malawi, Zambia will contest in Group C of the 2026 Women’s AFCON set for July.
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