Zambia Face Uncertainty Ahead of WAFCON 2026 Amid Häuptle Crisis

Zambia women’s national football team are facing confusion ahead of the 2026 WAFCON after reports that head coach Nora Häuptle has stepped down.

However, the situation is still unclear. Some reports say the Swiss coach has resigned and taken her case to FIFA over unfair treatment, but the Football Association of Zambia says she is still in charge.

This disagreement has created uncertainty in the team at an important time. Häuptle is also said to be asking for about $1 million as compensation, covering her contract until 2028.

The problem is linked to internal issues within the team. Reports say Häuptle was unhappy with some decisions by FAZ, including the return of assistant coach Enala Phiri, whom she had earlier removed. A similar issue reportedly happened in 2025 and was later resolved.

Now, with another dispute happening close to a major tournament, Zambia are distracted when they should be preparing.

Zambia are in a tough group at WAFCON 2026 with the Nigeria women’s national football team, Egypt women’s national football team, and Malawi women’s national football team. The group is already being called very difficult, and any weakness could be costly.

The timing of this issue is worrying, especially as Nigeria are strong and experienced. The Super Falcons, led by coach Justin Madugu, have top players like Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Chiamaka Nnadozie.

Nigeria also have the advantage from recent meetings. At the last WAFCON in 2025, they beat Zambia 5-0 in the quarter-finals in Casablanca. Häuptle admitted after that match that her team was outplayed.

Before this current issue, Häuptle had said Zambia wanted to close the gap with Nigeria. But with uncertainty around her future, that task now looks more difficult.

Even if Zambia appoint a new coach, such as Charles Haalubono, there may not be enough time to prepare well before the tournament.

In football, good preparation is very important. Right now, Nigeria look settled and ready, while Zambia are still dealing with problems. If this situation is not solved quickly, it could affect Zambia’s chances at WAFCON 2026.