Uganda eliminate Zambia to reach final U20 World Cup hurdle

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Uganda U20 women’s national team, the Queen Cranes, secured a place in the fourth and final qualification round of the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after eliminating Zambia.

The Ugandans won 1-0 in the return leg played on Saturday, at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola to progress 2-1 on aggregate.

The first leg had ended 1-1 at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba, a week earlier.

Head coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes said her players performed well.

“We gave our all for Uganda. Scoring against Zambia wasn't easy, but in football, anything is possible. We were ready to put in a strong performance, and indeed the girls responded,” Botes said.

“We worked on all the tactical aspects, especially offensively, and everyone in the team is happy,” she added.

Uganda made a dream start. Just seven minutes into the game, Mary Katono found the back of the net to silence the home crowd.

Her goal gave Uganda a 1-0 lead on the day and a 2-1 advantage on aggregate. The Queen Cranes played with confidence in the first half.

They controlled the midfield and remained organised in defence, limiting Zambia’s clear chances. By half-time, Uganda were still leading 1-0.

In the second half, Zambia increased the pressure and pushed forward in search of an equaliser. However, Uganda’s defence remained strong and disciplined.

With time running out, Botes made changes to freshen up the team. Peace Muduwa replaced Sylivia Kabene, while Yasmeen Nalukwago came on for Mary Katono.

Zambia continued to press even during the five minutes of added time, but Uganda held firm until the final whistle.

Queen Cranes celebrate Mary Kantono's goal against Zambia in the first half. (Courtesy Photo/FUFA)

At full time, it ended Zambia 0-1 Uganda, confirming Uganda’s place in the final qualification round.

Uganda will now face Ghana in the final round. Ghana eliminated South Africa 3-2 on aggregate. The first leg in Accra ended 2-2 before Ghana secured a 1-0 stoppage-time win in the return leg.

Looking ahead to the Ghana tie, Botes remained confident.

“Ghana is a strong side, but we shall prepare well. At this stage, every team is strong. We shall work hard, stay focused and give our best for Uganda,” she said.

Africa has four slots at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, and eight teams will battle for those places in the final round scheduled for May.

Uganda will face Ghana, Benin will take on the Ivory Coast, Cameroon will play the winner between Kenya and Tanzania, while Malawi will face either Nigeria or Senegal.