Uganda’s U20 Women’s National Team, the Queen Cranes, settled for a 1-1 draw with Zambia in the first leg of the third round of the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba on Saturday.
Captain Agnes Nabukenya gave Uganda the lead in the 23rd minute after a well-worked move. A cross from the left located Mary Kantono inside the box, who laid the ball off for Nabukenya to strike home and hand the hosts a slim halftime advantage.
Zambia equalised in the 59th minute when Edith Phiri tapped in from close range after Uganda failed to clear a free kick. The visitors then held firm defensively despite late pressure from the home side.
Uganda created chances to restore their lead. Kantono came close after capitalising on a goalkeeping error, but her effort found the side netting, while Nabukenya struck the crossbar with a curling free kick late on.
Queen Cranes head coach Sheryl Botes remained positive after the match. “It was a good display. The team was prepared for the physicality and speed of our opponents, and I think they played well. We have taken positives from the match, although we had hoped to secure a win. Their height played a role in their goal.”
She also pointed to areas that need improvement before the second leg. “Zambia will approach the return leg in the same way. We need to find solutions to deal with first and second balls more effectively, but I do not anticipate making major changes to our approach.”
The return leg is scheduled for February 14 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Zambia. The aggregate winner will progress to the fourth round and face either Ghana or South Africa for a place at the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
