Copper Queens Coach Nora Häuptle Explains 6-0 Winning Mentality, Was A Result Of Ignoring Social Media Bogus Reports

Copper Queens head coach Nora Häuptle has praised her players for their discipline, determination and unwavering focus following Zambia’s emphatic 6-0 victory over Egypt in their opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Häuptle revealed that she had challenged the squad to embrace two Bemba expressions as part of her coaching philosophy heading into the tournament. The Swiss tactician said the phrases were intended to instill resilience, aggression and a fighting spirit that would carry the team through every minute of the game.

According to Häuptle, the players responded exactly as she had hoped, maintaining their concentration from the first whistle to the final moments despite already holding a comfortable lead. She noted that the team’s ability to remain focused and continue creating scoring opportunities reflected the mentality the coaching staff has been working to build.

“We demanded ‘akalata’ and also ‘umupampamina’ which is resilience and aggressiveness that we want until the last second.” Said Häuptle.

“We shifted our focus from social media and other distractions, and today the players showed that mentality by staying focused and scoring even in the final minutes.”

And Banda said the convincing win was an encouraging start but insisted the team’s attention had already turned focus to the next challenge.

“It feels so good and we are so excited as a team. We bury this one and now we are looking forward to the next game because we are taking each match as it comes.”

“The tribute after the first goal was for coach Bruce Mwape, and we remain united as a team while remembering the great work he did for us.”