The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) says Copper Queens head coach Nora Häuptle will not travel to Brazil for the FIFA Series tournament after contract renegotiation talks stalled.
FAZ Acting Deputy General Secretary Iva Lengwe says Häuptle has proposed amendments to her current contract, leading to drawn-out negotiations that have ruled her out of the assignment.
He further says FAZ regrets that Häuptle will not lead the Copper Queens in Brazil as a result of the ongoing renegotiations. Hence, Assistant coach Charles Haalubono will take charge of the squad in Brazil, with FAZ pledging its full support.
Lengwe adds that all travel logistics had been arranged for Häuptle, but she could not travel due to her desire to secure contract amendments in the coming days.
On the squad’s travel, Lengwe says some players experienced visa delays but confirms that all summoned members have since departed for Brazil.
The Copper Queens open their FIFA Series campaign against Canada on Saturday before facing host nation Brazil on Tuesday, with their final assignment against South Korea on April 18.
By Canaan Siame
