Zambia coach Hauptle rules out Chilfufya, Chanda for Malawi friendly

Photo Credit - Football Association of Zambia.

Zambia women’s national team head coach Nora Hauptle has confirmed the absence of Orlando Pride duo Prisca Chilufya and Grace Chanda for the upcoming FIFA international friendlies against Malawi set for February 22 and 25 at REIZ Arena (formerly Woodlands) in Lusaka.

Speaking at a press conference Friday, the Swiss tactician remained confident that the Copper Queens will get a positive outcome despite the absence of the key players.

“Grace Chanda and Prisca Chilufya are unfortunately out due to injuries and after the selection today, we think that we have a very balanced squad now,” said Hauptle.

“The strength has always been transitioning into the attack, we have worked on stabilizing the defence this week and give structure to certain things. The players are open minded and are picking up quickly and adapting to the new philosophy, so let’s bring it on together.”

The former Black Queens of Ghana coach continued: “We had a good week of pre-camp where we screened around 35 players this week. It was an intense week and a pleasure to be on the pitch. My office is the pitch and I enjoyed it to the fullest. I am curious to meet the internationals. I am full of joy, full of pleasure and I am looking forward to the games against Malawi.

“I expect goosebumps (at the REIZ Arena). My dream one day is when the renovations at the national (Heroes) stadium are finished, we can have our (WAFCON) qualifiers in October and have a soldout stadium that would be the highest of my dreams.

“I am convinced that we can win the crowd and everyone is telling me that they are fans of the Copper Queens. I feel a lot of support and positive emotions and of course we need to deliver on the pitch and I am convinced we will do so next week.”

The 2023 WAFCON bronze medallists will use the friendly against the Scorchers as part of their preparations for the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.