Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Zambia 4-1 Uganda (Zambia win 5-3 on aggregate)
Uganda’s hopes of reaching the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games suffered a major setback after the Crested Cranes lost 4-1 to Zambia’s Copper Queens in the return leg of their second-round qualifier on Tuesday evening.
The defeat at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola saw Zambia advance to the next round with a 5-3 aggregate victory, ending Uganda’s campaign in the CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
It was a disappointing start for new Crested Cranes coach Firew Asefa Hailegebreal, who took charge after Sheryl Botes left following the expiry of her contract.
Zambia started strongly and took the lead in the ninth minute when Natasha Nanyangwe headed home from a corner.
Uganda responded through Sylvia Kabene, who capitalised on a defensive mistake after chasing a long ball before beating the goalkeeper to level the score.
However, the Copper Queens regained the lead in the 21st minute when Enelesi Phiri finished from close range after exploiting space on the left flank.
The hosts went into the break leading 2-1, putting Uganda under pressure to find a way back into the contest.
Banda punishes Uganda
Zambia captain Barbra Banda proved decisive in the second half, scoring twice to seal the victory and Uganda’s elimination.
Banda extended Zambia’s lead in the 51st minute after capitalising on a defensive error, racing past her marker and beating goalkeeper Edith Karungi.
Uganda struggled to contain the hosts’ attacking threat as Zambia continued to push forward in front of their home supporters.
Banda then completed her brace late in the match, making it 4-1 on the night and 5-3 on aggregate to confirm Zambia’s progress to the next round.
Source: ChampionSport
