The Uganda Under-20 Women’s National Team has arrived in Ndola ahead of Saturday’s decisive second-leg encounter against Zambia in the third round of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026 qualifiers.
The Young Crested Cranes touched down at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport at 11:55 hours and have since shifted focus to final preparations as the tie moves to Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
Zambia, who were hosted by Uganda in the first leg a week ago, will be banking on a strong home performance as they chase a historic breakthrough. The Young Copper Queens are targeting a maiden appearance at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, adding extra significance to Saturday’s showdown. Kick-off is set for 15:00 hours.
Head coach Florence Mwila is expected to rely on a solid core of players to drive the team’s ambitions. Goalkeeper Mwila Mufunte is tipped to be key between the posts, while the defensive unit will be marshalled by Margaret Gondwe, Saliya Mwanza, Lwendo Hanongo and Jessy Zulu. In midfield, the responsibility of controlling the tempo will fall on Mercy Chipasula, Lubasi Pumulo, Natasha Nkaka and Bupe Banda, with striker Grace “Pogba” Phiri leading the line as Zambia’s main attacking threat.
The stakes are high, with the winner on aggregate advancing to the final qualification round, where either Ghana or South Africa awaits. The two heavyweights played out an entertaining 2–2 draw in their first-leg encounter, leaving that tie finely poised.
Tickets for the Ndola clash are already on sale at all Shoprite outlets, with South, North and East Wing tickets priced at K20, West Wing tickets at K50, and VIP tickets going for K100.
With World Cup dreams on the line, Levy Mwanawasa Stadium is set to host a thrilling afternoon of continental youth football as Zambia and Uganda battle for a step closer to Poland 2026.
