Former Copper Queens head coach Charles Bwale believes Zambia have the quality and experience to challenge for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, insisting that failing to reach the semi-finals would be a disappointing outcome.
Bwale said the current squad possesses an ideal balance of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent, giving the Copper Queens every chance of competing with Africa’s best.
He highlighted the importance of senior figures such as Kabange Mupopo and Racheal Nachula, saying their experience will be invaluable in guiding younger players throughout the tournament.
“The team is well balanced with energy and experience, such as Kabange Mupopo and Racheal Nachula. These players have seen it all and will be crucial in guiding players like Chipasula,” Bwale said.
The former Zambia coach noted that experience has often proved decisive in major tournaments, pointing to South Africa’s successful WAFCON campaign as an example.
“In women’s football, experience is vital. Looking at how South Africa won their first WAFCON title, some of their players were advanced in age but played a big role.”
Bwale challenged the Copper Queens to embrace the occasion, arguing that the current group has accumulated enough international experience to mount a serious title challenge.
“I think we have enough experience, and anything less than a semi-final appearance will be a failure on the side of the players.”
“These are the same players who have competed at two Olympic Games and played at a FIFA Women’s World Cup. That experience should give Zambia every chance to fight for the title. It also comes down to mentality—I want them to approach this tournament as though it is their last.”
Bwale Applauds Häuptle’s Faith in Young Talent
Bwale also praised head coach Nora Häuptle for giving emerging players an opportunity to prove themselves during Zambia’s pre-tournament friendlies against Algeria.
In the first warm-up match, Häuptle handed starting roles to Mwila Mufunte and Mercy Chipasula. Chipasula justified the decision by scoring Zambia’s opening goal, while Mufunte gained valuable experience despite being sent off late in the match after conceding the penalty that allowed Algeria to equalise.
According to Bwale, exposing young players to high-level international football before the tournament will strengthen the squad and prepare them for the demands of WAFCON.
The Copper Queens are now putting the finishing touches to their preparations as they look to build on their recent success and challenge for a first-ever continental crown.
