The Uganda U-20 Women’s National Team (Queen Cranes) have progressed to the fourth and final round of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers following a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Zambia in the second leg played on Saturday at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
Uganda advanced on a 2–1 aggregate scoreline, having drawn 1–1 in the first leg played last week at the FUFA Stadium, Kadiba.
Head Coach Sheryl Botes made one change to the starting line-up from the Kampala encounter, with Imelda Kasemire replacing Krusum Namutebi in midfield.
The Queen Cranes began the contest brightly and made several early inroads around Zambia’s goal. Their positive start paid off in the seventh minute when Mary Kantono capitalised on a well-delivered cross to give Uganda an early lead.
Uganda continued to press after going ahead and created a number of scoring opportunities but were unable to extend their advantage, heading into the interval with a slender lead.
Zambia returned with renewed determination in the second half and pushed hard for an equaliser. However, Uganda remained compact defensively and managed the game effectively until the final whistle, with the early goal proving decisive.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Coach Sheryl Botes praised the character and commitment of her players.
‘I want to thank my team for the effort and character. We were told before coming here that no team had ever beaten Zambia at home, especially at this stadium. But as Uganda, we worked tirelessly and believed in ourselves,’ said Botes.
She also dedicated the victory to the people of Uganda and acknowledged the continued support for women’s football from FUFA leadership, including FUFA President Moses Magogo.
‘This victory is for the people of Uganda who have truly backed the team. I also appreciate FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim for his continued support and love for women’s football. It is a very good win for us,’ she added.
The result sets up a final-round tie against Ghana in May, after the West Africans edged South Africa 3–2 on aggregate to secure their place.
