Ninety minutes tonight will decide whether the Copper Queens remain on course for a third successive Olympic Games. Zambia host Uganda in the return leg of their second-round 2028 Olympic qualifier at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola at 18:00, trailing 2-1 from the first leg played in Kampala last Thursday.
Zambia, who competed at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games, are seeking a third successive appearance — this time at Los Angeles 2028. The winner over the two legs will face either Ghana or Mauritius in the next round.
We gave them too much space when they had the ball. That is why I said the attitude was not good. We have worked on it, we have to press and work extra hard.
— Charles Haalubono, Copper Queens interim head coach, ahead of the match — Lusaka Times
Haalubono said he was sure the team would perform better at home, on a pitch the players are used to. Captain Barbra Banda struck the same note of resolve.
It is important for us as a team to go back to the Olympics for a third time, but it takes attitude and determination. We know what it takes but it will not be easy but definitely we are looking for a win.
— Barbra Banda, Copper Queens captain — Lusaka Times
Uganda, however, say they are in Ndola to complete a double over Zambia. Assistant coach Ahumuza Collins said the Crested Cranes travelled to win again: “Having won the game at home, we will still play to win the game in Zambia.” Captain Nadia Nankya said determination, which helped Uganda in the first leg, will be key again tonight.
The tie is the centrepiece of a busy fortnight for the women's game, and the federation will hope the Ndola crowd gives the home side the edge that was missing in Kampala. Kick-off is 18:00 CAT.
Sources: Lusaka Times, “Copper Queens Seek Redemption Against Uganda” (12 Oct 2026).