Häuptle believes his team can pull off a shock against Nigeria

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Zambia coach Nora Häuptle has said her side are fully prepared for what she expects to be a tough contest against Nigeria in their second Group C match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Saturday.

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The Copper Queens go into the match on the back of a 6-0 thumping of Egypt in their opening game, a result that leaves them top of Group C on goal difference, while Nigeria are coming off a shock 3-2 defeat to debutants Malawi. Victory for Zambia would see them advance to the quarter-finals with a game to spare.

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Speaking at a pre-match media conference, Häuptle said her side would need to adjust their approach for a different kind of test against the Super Falcons.

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“Basically, we have a good mood in camp. Our opening game went well, but we also know that the game against Nigeria will be completely different, so we keep our feet on the ground.

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“We need to adjust against Nigeria. We are good to go,” Häuptle said.

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The Swiss tactician said Zambia are aware of Nigeria’s must-win situation but insisted her side will not sit back.

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“We know that Nigeria needs to win this game or else they will be out. We are aware of Nigeria’s strength. We are fully prepared and expect Nigeria to come with their full stamina.

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“We are focused on ourselves, we have a clear plan, and we discussed today how to execute our plan. My team Zambia never plays for a draw, our nature is to win. We can also surprise Nigeria. I have a lot of confidence in my team that we bring our performance on point. Every game is a challenge,” she said.

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Zambia forward Rachael Kundananji echoed her coach’s confidence, saying the squad are relishing the challenge of facing the defending champions.

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“The morale in camp is high and the team is ready. We understand that it is not an easy task ahead. It will not be an easy game. We are looking forward to the game, and we want to do our best. The team is fully prepared for the game. Winning this match will be good for the team and the entire nation,” Kundananji said.

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Zambia are aiming to better their bronze medal finish from the 2022 edition of the tournament, achieved under the late coach Bruce Mwape.

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