Copper Queens interim head coach Charles ‘Soldier’ Haalubono says Zambia must respond in the second leg after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Uganda in the first leg of their 2028 CAF Women’s Olympic qualifier.
Zambia took an early lead through Prisca Chilufya at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo in Kampala, but Uganda fought back to claim the advantage ahead of next week’s return fixture.
Agness Nabukenya drew the hosts level with a superb free-kick before Sylvia Kabene completed Uganda’s comeback in the second half.
Haalubono felt the playing surface contributed to Zambia’s difficulties, with the Copper Queens accustomed to playing on natural grass.
“The surface of the pitch affected us too because we are used to natural grass,” Haalubono said.
The coach also admitted Zambia struggled to maintain possession after taking the lead.
“After scoring, we sat back and were losing the balls easily. We needed to hold the ball.”
Haalubono was encouraged by the impact of the changes made during the match but acknowledged that Uganda competed strongly throughout.
“The changes we made improved our game. We are in a competition and we want to qualify for the Olympics. Uganda fought for every ball.”
Despite the defeat, Haalubono insists Zambia remain firmly in the contest and has called on his players to respond in the return leg.
“We just have to move on. We have to fight back in Ndola next week.”
The interim coach also stressed that selection for the national team should be based on commitment rather than reputation or background.
“It’s not about where you are coming from or your name. It’s about your willingness to play for the national team.”
The result leaves Zambia needing to overturn a one-goal deficit in the second leg, which will be played at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Tuesday, 13 October 2026.
The Copper Queens must win by at least two goals to secure progress without the need for a penalty shootout.
