Uganda came from behind to beat Zambia 2-1 in the first leg of the second round of the 2028 CAF Women’s Olympic qualifier at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo in Kampala.
Prisca Chilufya gave the Copper Queens an early lead before Agness Nabukenya levelled for the hosts with a superb free-kick.
Sylvia Kabene then completed Uganda’s comeback in the second half, leaving Zambia with a one-goal deficit to overturn in the return leg.
Zambia made the brighter start and took the lead after six minutes.
Captain Barbra Banda did the hard work to create space inside the Uganda defence before setting up Chilufya, who calmly tapped the ball home from close range.
The Copper Queens came close to doubling their advantage five minutes later when Banda released Racheal Kundananji inside the penalty area, but the forward’s left-footed effort was blocked.
Uganda gradually grew into the contest and threatened the Zambia goal. Fazila Ikwaput forced a save from Hazel Nali, while Nabukenya went past two defenders before beating the goalkeeper but seeing her effort strike the post.
The pressure eventually paid off in the 34th minute when Nabukenya curled a powerful free-kick past Nali to bring Uganda level.
Banda came close to restoring Zambia’s lead before the break, heading just wide, while Kundananji was unable to make the most of Chilufya’s low cross.
Charles Haalubono made a double change at half-time, introducing Evarine Susan Katongo and Martha Tembo for Avell Chitundu and Rachel Nachula.
Kundananji was then replaced by Enelesi Phiri at the start of the second half as Zambia looked to regain control.
Uganda, however, started to apply greater pressure and took the lead in the 58th minute.
A short corner created space for a pinpoint cross into the box, with Kabene left unmarked to head Uganda in front.
Zambia responded strongly, with Uganda goalkeeper Vanessa Edith Karungi producing an excellent fingertip save to deny Phiri.
Phiri went even closer in the 75th minute, striking the crossbar with a powerful free-kick as the Copper Queens searched for an equaliser.
Haalubono introduced Mercy Chipasula for Chilufya in the 66th minute, while Natasha Nanyangwe later replaced Esther Muchinga as Zambia pushed for a late goal.
Despite six minutes of added time, the Copper Queens could not find a way through as Uganda held on for victory.
The result means Zambia must win the return leg by at least two goals to progress without the need for a penalty shootout.
The second leg will be played at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Tuesday, 13 October 2026.
