The Zambia U-17 Women’s National Team has advanced to the final round of the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier, defeating Uganda 2-1 on aggregate.

The Copper Princesses, who defeated the Teen Cranes at home last Sunday at the National Heroes Stadium with goals from Ruth Mukoma and Namute Chileshe, lost 1-0 on Friday at the St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende, Uganda but it was not enough to stop them from advancing.

Uganda demonstrated their intent to attack Zambia in the early stages of the game, winning a corner within 15 minutes, but the Zambian defense held firm under pressure.

The Copper Princesses also launched several unsuccessful attacks but the first half ended 0-0 with no much action.

The second half was another evenly matched contest, with Zambia’s coach, Carol Kanyemba, making changes, introducing Mercy Chipasula for Ruth Muwowo at the restart, and Mary Mukupa being replaced by Taonga Mubanga.

Uganda put Zambia under pressure

However, it was the Teen Cranes that looked hungrier of the two sides as the second stanza continued.

They did not stop pressing and in the 73rd minute, they got that all-important goal through Sylvia Kabene, putting more pressure on the Zambians, who were now forced to defend deep.

Kanyembo made another tactical change, withdrawing captain Zangose Zulu for Harriet Matipa in the 88th minute before the fourth official signaled for eight additional minutes.

Uganda could not find a second, ending the match 2-1 on aggregate, which was enough for the Copper Princesses to advance to the final round, where they will face either Morocco or Algeria, who will clash later today.

Morocco defeated Algeria 4-0 in the first leg of their match, giving them an early advantage in the opening leg between the two Arab countries.

The Dominican Republic will host the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup from October 16, 2024, to November 3, 2024 and only three teams from Africa will qualify.