Uganda’s U20 Women National Team and Zambia’s Young Copper Queens played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday in the first leg of the third round of the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The match was played at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba, with Uganda taking the lead in the first half through captain Agnes Nabukenya before Zambia responded after the break via Edith Phiri.
Both sides came into the encounter in fine form after convincing second round performances, with Uganda eliminating Namibia 5-0 on aggregate while Zambia knocked out Burundi 4-1.
Uganda drew first blood in the 23rd minute when Nabukenya fired in a stunning strike from outside the area.
The goal came after a well-delivered cross from the left found Martha Babirye in the box, who teed up the skipper to curl home powerfully and send the home fans into celebration.
Zambia improved significantly in the second half after introducing fresh legs and began to dominate possession while increasing pressure on Uganda’s defense.
Their persistence paid off in the 59th minute when Phiri finished from close range to bring the visitors level.
Uganda pushed forward in search of a winning goal and came close on several occasions.
Babirye failed to take advantage of a goalkeeping mistake, sending her effort into the side netting, while Nabukenya nearly restored the lead with a powerful free kick that crashed off the crossbar.
Despite Uganda’s late pressure, Zambia remained disciplined at the back and managed to hold on for a draw.
The two teams will now face off in the return leg at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Zambia, with the winner on aggregate advancing to the fourth round where either Ghana or South Africa awaits.
