By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Copper Queens defender Saliya Mwanza says Zambia are united and determined to overturn their first-leg deficit against Uganda as they prepare for Tuesday’s decisive second-leg encounter in the CAF Olympic qualifiers.
Zambia suffered a 2-1 defeat to Uganda’s Crested Cranes in the first leg in Kampala on 8 October, leaving the Copper Queens needing a strong performance on home soil to keep their Los Angeles 2028 Olympic qualification hopes alive.
Mwanza, however, insists the mood in camp remains positive, with the players focused on a common objective as they prepare for the crucial showdown in Ndola.
“The mood in camp is just okay. We are all moving on the same page so that we win Tuesday’s game,” Mwanza said.
The defender is also eager to seize any opportunity that comes her way, pledging to give her all and demonstrate her commitment to the team’s cause if selected by the technical bench.
“If the coach gives me a chance, I will use it with all my strength so that I prove that I want this. I will use it wisely,” she said.
Mwanza added that Sunday’s training session went well, with the players continuing to push themselves as they fine-tune their preparations for the return leg.
“Yesterday’s training was okay because we are all pushing so that we win,” she said.
With the Copper Queens looking to overturn the deficit, the defender believes the backing of the home crowd could prove vital in lifting the team’s spirits and inspiring a positive result.
Mwanza has therefore called on supporters to fill Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, emphasising the impact their presence has on the players.
“The fans need to come and support us. When we see them, they give us morale. They put us in the mood, so they need to come in numbers,” she said.
She also urged Zambian fans to remain confident in the team, assuring them that the players are determined to deliver when it matters most.
“Our fans, you need to support us and don’t lose hope in us because we are delivering on Tuesday,” Mwanza added.
The Copper Queens host Uganda’s Crested Cranes at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Tuesday, 13 October, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00 hours Zambian time.
With a place in the next round at stake, Zambia will be hoping to turn home advantage into a winning performance and keep their bid to qualify for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games on track.
