Veteran football coach Joseph Emmanuel Sarpong has advocated for the retention of Swiss female football coach Nora Hauptle as the head coach of the Black Queens of Ghana.
Under Hauptle’s guidance, the Black Queens endured a heartbreaking loss to Zambia in their quest to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Despite a 0-1 defeat at home to the Copper Queens on February 23, 2024, and a 3-3 draw in the return leg in Ndola on February 28, 2024, Sarpong believes Hauptle has performed admirably.
According to Sarpong, who previously coached Accra Great Olympics, Hauptle has made significant strides in the development of women’s football since assuming the role on January 5, 2023.
He emphasized the importance of providing Hauptle with the necessary support and resources to continue her work effectively.
“They shouldn’t change her unless she wants to leave. She is an expat. What she needs must be made available to her.”
Sarpong highlighted the positive reception Hauptle received from supporters, citing a lap of honor in Accra after the first leg against Zambia as evidence of her popularity and effectiveness as a coach.
In conclusion, Sarpong urged the Ghana Football Association not to replace Hauptle unless she expresses a desire to leave, emphasizing the importance of continuity and support for the progress of women’s football in Ghana.
“There was a clap of honor from the supporters in Accra after the first leg. That is even a push. It shows she’s loved by the people. She is aware of the issues regarding the Black Stars, and when you are applauded by Ghanaians, then she’s up to something good.”
