Faz Strengthens Copper Queens Bench As Hauptle Returns To Swelterland.

FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shapande ,confirmed that wisdom Kaira and Enala phiri have joined the team in South Africa as additional deputies, to assist couch Halubono.

Kaira who serves as assistant couch ,at indeni Roses and phiri ,head couch at Konkola blades queens have improved the bench as Zambia continues it's regional title campaign. 

Meanwhile Hauptle,who had initially being expected to lead the team at COSAFA had returned back to swelterland to complete an assignment that may  not finish any time soon , For her to take charge during regional tournaments. 

Shapande explained that the association chose to allow Hauptle to complete her task abroad, before turning full attention to  prepare for the women's Africa Cup of Nations ( WAFCON).

"As indicated earlier in the week, Nora should have been with the team but the association allowed her to complete her assignment, looking at the turn  of events it prudent that Nora completes her task and come to Zambia to start her WAFCON base,whose starting falls within the COSAFA period ", Shapande explained. 

In addition the Copper Queens are scheduled to commence their WAFCON  preparations ,on 24 February 2026 ,in Lusaka. The initial camp will comprise  foreign based players, with locally based players currently engaged at the COSAFA tournament in South Africa. 

However due to the overlap tournament and camp schedules,  Hauptle is expected to return in the country to supervise the WAFCON training Camp.While the technical team in polokwane will continue managing COSAFA duties. 

"Because of the conflict dates ,Nora will return to supervise the camp in Lusaka," Shapande said.