Copper Queens head coach Nora Häuptle has stepped down from her duties ahead of the upcoming FIFA Series in Brazil, citing concerns over the direction of key standards within the team setup.
In a statement posted on LinkedIn, Häuptle said her decision followed a period of reflection after a challenging year marked by leadership changes at the Football Association of Zambia and the postponement of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which also serves as a FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier.
Despite these challenges, she noted that the team achieved positive results and made the country proud. However, she raised concern that “standards in several areas are not developing in the right direction to support sustainable success.”
The Swiss trainer revealed that she had compiled a manifesto outlining “10 keys to sustainable success for the Copper Queens,” along with a report highlighting current shortcomings and proposed solutions. The document is intended to guide discussions aimed at improving the team’s environment.
She pointed to the need for more high-level international matches, improved staff assessments, better use of technology, efficient travel logistics, clearer decision-making structures, consistent leadership, proper budgeting, and fair remuneration.
Häuptle also called for collective responsibility among stakeholders to prioritise players and drive meaningful change in women’s football.
“To give weight to the manifest, I lay down all my duties as Headcoach and will not be part of the FIFA Series in Brazil,” she stated, adding that she remains open to further dialogue with FAZ.
Her decision leaves uncertainty over the immediate future of the Copper Queens’ technical bench, with discussions expected to determine the next steps. BolaNews understands that FAZ is considering a mutual separation, with concerns over her working relationship with the association’s leadership.
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