Zambia Under 20 Women’s National Team head coach Florence Mwila says her side will adjust their game plan when they face Uganda in a decisive FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. The first leg ended in a 1 all draw in Kampala, leaving the contest finely balanced ahead of the return fixture in Ndola. Speaking during the pre match press conference, Mwila said her technical bench has analysed Uganda’s strengths and prepared solutions to counter their aggressive approach. She explained that coming from behind in the first leg forced Zambia to change tactics, proving the team’s flexibility under pressure.
Mwila noted that Zambia prefers possession based football but had to adopt a more direct approach after struggling to maintain control in Kampala. She said when facing a physically strong opponent like Uganda, it is important to adapt quickly and make bold decisions. By playing long balls in the first leg, Zambia managed to find the equaliser and keep their qualification hopes alive. The coach believes the lessons learned in Uganda will help her squad execute a more effective strategy at home. She expressed confidence that the team is ready to deliver in front of their supporters in Ndola.
Team captain Jessy Zulu believes the midfield battle will determine who advances to the final round of the FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers. She said the technical bench has drilled the players on how to cut off supply lines and protect the backline from pressure. Zulu acknowledged Uganda’s strength in midfield and stressed the need for discipline and compact play to avoid exposing the goalkeeper. She added that the coaches have done their part in preparation and it is now up to the players to implement the plan on the pitch. For Zambia, execution and concentration over 90 minutes will be critical.
Uganda head coach Sheryl Botes admitted that Zambia may have the edge on paper but sees the match as an opportunity to measure her team’s growth. She said no team enters a fixture expecting to lose and insisted Uganda will fight for victory. Uganda captain Agness Nabukenya, who scored in the first leg, is confident that her side can deliver in Ndola. She pointed out that football often produces surprises and believes any player in the squad can step up and score.
The match kicks off at 15:00 hours at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, with the winner advancing to the final round to face either Ghana or South Africa. Tickets are available at all Shoprite outlets, with South, North, and East Wing tickets priced at K20, West Wing tickets at K50, and VIP tickets at K100. With a place in the final round at stake, fans can expect a high intensity encounter as Zambia and Uganda battle for World Cup qualification.