Copper Queens interim head coach Charles ‘Soldier’ Haalubono says Zambia must respond in the second leg after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Uganda in the first leg of their 2028 CAF Women’s Olympic qualifier.
Zambia took an early lead through Prisca Chilufya at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo in Kampala, but Uganda responded strongly to turn the match around. Agness Nabukenya brought the hosts level with a superb free-kick before Sylvia Kabene completed Uganda’s comeback in the second half.
Haalubono believes the playing surface contributed to some of Zambia’s difficulties during the match, with the Copper Queens more accustomed to playing their football on natural grass.
“The surface of the pitch affected us too because we are used to natural grass,” Haalubono said.
The interim coach also acknowledged that Zambia failed to maintain possession effectively after taking the lead, allowing Uganda to gain greater control of the contest.
“After scoring, we sat back and were losing the balls easily. We needed to hold the ball.”
Haalubono was encouraged by the impact of the changes made during the game, although he credited Uganda for competing strongly and making the contest difficult for Zambia.
“The changes we made improved our game. We are in a competition and we want to qualify for the Olympics. Uganda fought for every ball.”
Despite the first-leg setback, Haalubono believes the tie remains within Zambia’s reach and has called on his players to respond when the two sides meet again in Ndola.
“We just have to move on. We have to fight back in Ndola next week.”
The coach also emphasised that commitment to the national team should be the key consideration when players are selected, rather than their reputation, name or background.
“It’s not about where you are coming from or your name. It’s about your willingness to play for the national team.”
Zambia will now have to overturn the one-goal deficit in the second leg at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Tuesday, 13 October 2026.
The Copper Queens must win by at least two goals to progress without the need for a penalty shootout, setting up a crucial home encounter as Zambia continues its bid to reach the 2028 Olympic Games.
