The Copper Queens have intensified preparations for Tuesday’s crucial 2028 Olympic Games qualifier against Uganda, training at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola as they look to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit.
Coach Charles Haalubono, working with his full complement of assistants, led the session as Zambia sharpened their tactical organisation and worked on high-intensity passing drills ahead of the decisive return leg.
The Copper Queens head into the encounter needing a strong response after suffering a narrow defeat to Uganda’s Crested Cranes at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo, in Kampala last Thursday.
Zambia took an early lead through Prisca Chilufya but were unable to maintain their advantage as the hosts fought back to claim victory.
Agness Nabukenya restored parity with a superb free-kick before Sylvia Kabene scored in the second half to hand Uganda the advantage heading into the return fixture.
The result leaves Zambia with little margin for error as they seek to keep their hopes of qualifying for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games alive.
The Copper Queens must win by at least two clear goals to overturn the deficit and progress without a penalty shootout. A one-goal victory would leave the aggregate scores level and force the tie to be decided by penalties.
With home advantage on their side, Haalubono’s charges will be hoping to deliver a more clinical performance and capitalise on the support of the Zambian faithful.
Tuesday’s encounter is scheduled for 18:00 hours at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, with the Copper Queens needing to turn their preparations into a result against a Ugandan side that will arrive determined to protect its first-leg advantage.
Ticket information
Tickets for the return leg are on sale at all Shoprite outlets through Computicket, with prices as follows:
– North, South and East Wings: K50
– West Wing: K100
– VIP: K300
With Olympic qualification hopes on the line, the Copper Queens will be counting on strong home support as they attempt to overturn the deficit and take another step towards Los Angeles 2028.
