2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup
Return leg (Saturday 14th (Lusaka))
Zambia v Uganda 4pm
Ndola, Zambia: The Uganda women’s national under-20 football team, popularly known as the Queen Cranes, face a defining test this Saturday as they take on Zambia in the return leg of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
The decisive encounter, slated for 4pm, comes after a tense 1-1 draw in the first leg played in Kampala. Uganda must secure victory on Zambian soil to keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 global showpiece alive.
In the first leg at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba, Uganda showed resilience to hold Zambia, setting up a high-stakes return fixture in Ndola. With away goals potentially crucial, the Queen Cranes will need composure and clinical finishing to upset the hosts.
Head coach’s 20-player squad features goalkeeper Lillian Nakirya (St. Noa Girls), who produced three crucial saves in the first leg to keep Uganda in the tie. The defensive pairing of Desire Katisi Natooro (Kenya Police Bullets FC) and Vicky Atyeronimungu (Amus College WFC) will again be tasked with containing Zambia’s pacey attack.
Midfield Engine and Firepower
Uganda’s midfield creativity will hinge on Agnes Nabukenya (Kawempe Muslim Ladies) and Angel Kigongo Auki, whose ability to transition from defence to attack could prove decisive.
Up front, much of the spotlight falls on Sylvia Kabene (Hibernian FC), Uganda’s leading scorer this year with 12 goals across senior and U-20 competitions. She will be supported by Mary Katono and Yasmeen Nalukwago as the Queen Cranes seek the goals needed to progress.
The team arrived safely in Ndola on Thursday and is camped at Gloria Inn Hotel. They wrapped up final preparations at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba before departure, focusing on tactical discipline and set-piece execution.
The winner on aggregate between Uganda and Zambia will advance to face either South Africa or Ghana in the final qualification round, a final hurdle before the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
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