Uganda’s hopes of progressing to the third round of the 2028 CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifiers ended on Tuesday after the Crested Cranes suffered a 4-1 defeat to Zambia’s Copper Queens at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

The result saw Zambia advance 5-3 on aggregate, overturning Uganda’s 2-1 advantage from the first leg played at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo.

Head coach Asefa Firew Hailegebreal maintained the same starting XI that secured victory in Kampala, with Vanessa Karungi in goal behind a defensive line of Zaina Nandede, Auki Kigongo, Barbara Anomo and captain Shadia Nankya. Joan Nabirye, Phionah Nabbumba and Agnes Nabukenya started in midfield, while Fazila Ikwaput, Slyvia Kabene and Joanita Ainembabazi led the attack.

Zambia took the lead in the eighth minute through Natasha Nanyangwe, but Uganda responded six minutes later when Kabene levelled matters. The forward beat two Zambian players for pace before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Hazel Nali.

The hosts regained the lead in the 20th minute through Eneless Phiri before Barbara Banda struck twice in the second half to seal Zambia’s progression to the next round.

Despite the elimination, assistant coach Collins Ahumuza praised the players for their effort across the two legs. ‘It was a tough game against a tough opponent in Zambia, but I want to thank the players for the good fight they put up. Definitely, the result is disappointing, but we are proud that we competed throughout the two legs,’ she said after the match.

Ahumuza also emphasised the need to learn from the tie and build on the progress made in Ugandan women’s football. ‘It is now a moment for us to reflect on what we did not do well against Zambia, but also pick the positives and look at the future. Women’s football in Uganda has made progress over the years and I am confident we will return stronger and better.’

The team is expected to return to Uganda on Wednesday, while the majority of the foreign-based players will travel directly to their respective clubs.