Brighter Horizons: Nora Hauptle’s impact on Ghana’s Black Queens

Just three years ago, the Black Queens found themselves in a period of uncertainty and disappointment. Struggling with confidence, they missed out on qualification for the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), thus forfeiting another chance at a World Cup appearance.

This downturn was particularly surprising given their prior potential, evidenced by their unsuccessful attempt as hosts in the 2018 WAFCON, where they failed to advance past the group stage.

Following the departure of Bashir Hayford, Mercy Tagoe returned as head coach, guiding the team to a bronze medal at the 2019 WAFU Zone B championship. However, the failure to secure a spot in the WAFCON in Morocco prompted a demand for change, leading to the appointment of Nora Hauptle in January 2023.

Hauptle, a Swiss national with a background as an instructor at the Swiss Football Association and holder of a UEFA pro license, was relatively unknown at the time of her appointment, raising some eyebrows.

Despite initial reservations, Hauptle has proven to be a valuable addition to the team. Since taking over in January 2023, the Black Queens have qualified for the WAFCON in Morocco, scored 37 goals in 13 games, won 10 matches, and conceded just six. While they narrowly missed out on Olympic qualification, there are plenty of positives to take away from their performance.

One of Hauptle’s greatest strengths has been her ability to transform the team in such a short period. The Black Queens have secured the continent’s premier tournament for the first time in five years, and fans are excited to see what the future holds. Some supporters are even calling for Hauptle to be appointed as the coach for the Black Stars.

Hauptle’s dedication to developing young talent is another standout aspect of her tenure. She has attended various games to identify new talent and successfully integrated younger players into the team. This approach has provided opportunities for players like Freda Ayisi and Maafia Nyame to showcase their abilities and gain recognition.

The coach’s commitment to her role is evident in her willingness to travel extensively to scout for talent. Her trips to Turkey and Saudi Arabia have allowed her to spend quality time with players like Alice Kusi, Faustina Kyeremeh Adjei, and Doris Asiamah, further demonstrating her dedication to finding the best talent for the team.

With a full squad at her disposal, there’s no doubt that Hauptle will continue to make strides with the Black Queens. Her tactical prowess and ability to study targets and communicate effectively with players have made her a valuable asset to the team.

Ghana is indeed fortunate to have a coach like Hauptle, who combines the roles of scout, manager, and strategist in one. The future looks promising for the Black Queens under her guidance.

By Frank-Kamal Acheampong