“We Are the Best Transition Team in This Tournament” – Coach Nora Confident Ahead of Senegal Clash

Zambia Women’s National Team coach, Nora Hauptle, has expressed confidence in the Copper Queens’ ability to secure a positive result as they prepare to face Senegal in their second Group A fixture at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024.

Speaking during a pre-match press conference, coach Nora highlighted the team’s readiness and tactical growth following their 2-2 draw with hosts Morocco in the tournament opener.

“We’ve recovered well from the opening game. Our performance was solid. We defended smartly, transitioned quickly, and created many chances,” she said. “Now it’s about tweaking our possession game and building on our strengths.”

Zambia will take on Senegal tomorrow, Tuesday, July 9, at 18:00 hours at Mohammadia Stadium, in a match that could prove pivotal in determining the group standings.

Coach Nora described the Senegalese side as physically imposing and tactically different from Morocco, but remained confident in Zambia’s ability to adapt.

“Senegal are very robust physically. We will need to be clever again defensively and use our strength in transitions, which I believe we’re the best at in this tournament.”

In terms of team fitness, Nora noted that first-choice goalkeeper Catherine Musonda, who missed the opener, was back in training and being monitored closely for a possible return.

Asked directly whether Zambia would win tomorrow, Nora responded with honesty and professionalism:

“I’m not an oracle. No one can predict the result, but what I can promise is that we’re working hard to improve our performance indicators. Against Morocco, we had 12 shots, eight on target, and dominated most aspects except possession. When the performance is strong, results will follow.”

She concluded by calling on Zambians to rally behind the team.

“I hope everyone will be watching and supporting us. The first game was entertaining, and now we aim to bring home the victory.”

Match Info:
📅 Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
🆚 Zambia vs Senegal
🏟️ Mohammadia Stadium, Morocco
🕕 Kick-off: 18:00 hrs (local time)