Former Copper Queens head coach Albert Kachinga has assessed Zambia’s preparedness for the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2024, highlighting the need for tactical fine-tuning in the team.
Current Copper Queens coach Nora Häuptle has announced her final 24-member squad for the tournament, which will run from 5 to 26 July 2025. The team begins its local camp today before shifting to Morocco for an international training camp starting on 24 June 2025.
Zambia has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal, and DR Congo. They open their campaign against Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses on 5 July at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, followed by matches against Senegal and DR Congo on 9 and 12 July, respectively, at El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia.
Kachinga tips Nora
In an interview, Kachinga cited the players’ strong club performances as evidence of their individual readiness.
“When you look at what is happening right now, the players are actively involved at club level,” Kachinga said. “We saw Barbra Banda scoring a solo goal, Rachel Kundananji starting for Bay FC, and Prisca Chilufya also getting game time. So, mentally and physically, the players are prepared.”
However, he pointed out that while individual form is encouraging, there are still concerns regarding the team’s tactical coordination—an area he believes Häuptle needs to refine before the tournament kicks off.
“Maybe just on the tactical aspect of it — that’s where the question mark is. But I’m sure the coach is aware and will put things in order quickly,” he added.
Kachinga also praised the team’s fighting spirit, which he believes has been shaped by recent high-profile friendlies against South Africa and Botswana.
He remains optimistic that Zambia can progress beyond the group stage and make a deep run in the tournament.
“It’s a tough group, very tough. But looking at how these players have approached previous tournaments and big matches; they have shown no fear. I’m sure they’ll rise to the occasion and take something from this tournament,” Kachinga concluded.
READ MORE: Morocco Coach Vilda Admits Zambia Test Will Be Tough in WAFCON Opener
