With the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup fast approaching, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has included experienced Chipolopolo coach, Avram Grant to the Copper Queen’s technical bench.
The Team’s defense has continued to be the biggest area of concern. They have conceded 18 goals in their last nine matches and Bruce Mwape appears to be at a loss for ideas.
Despite having one of the hottest attacks on the African continent their backline remains the weakest link.
However, in an attempt to improve the technical bench, FAZ re-enforced the technical bench with Chipolopolo physical trainer Jamie Lawrence, a video analyst as well as Lisa Cole as the technical advisor.
FAZ president Andrew Kamanga on Monday also revealed that “Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant has extended his hand to the ladies’ team in the background to improve the team’s technical outlook.
Kamanga stated in his weekly president’s corner column, “It should be patently clear that ultimately the responsibility of managing the team lies with coach Bruce Mwape who is receiving all the necessary support across the board,”
Grant is expected to travel with the team to the World Cup and will be part of the backroom coaching staff.
Grant notes a lack of passion and mental strength among the Copper Queens
Addressing the team, the former Chelsea FC gaffer said that he was pleased with their performance. He, however, cautioned them that talent without hard work is nothing.
“Nobody has enough talent to live on talent only,” he said. “You have a big talent. I saw the game today, and I was very happy with the game.
“But remember, talent without passion and without mental strength is not good enough.”
It’s evident that Mwape has a wider pool of advisors providing him with all the necessary support.
READ MORE: Avram Grant tips Copper Queens ahead of the World Cup
The Copper Queens will conclude their European camp with a game against Germany in Furth this Friday.
They will open their campaign at the World Cup against Japan on July 22 in Hamilton before taking on Spain four days later at Eden Park.
Their final Group C game will be against Costa Rica on July 31 at Waikato Stadium.
