The Copper Queens have done it again. Down 2-1 from the first leg in Kampala, many had written them off. But on Tuesday evening at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, Barbra Banda and her charges showed what it means to wear the Zambian colours with pride – fighting back to thrash Uganda 4-1…

The Copper Queens have done it again.

Down 2-1 from the first leg in Kampala, many had written them off. But on Tuesday evening at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, Barbra Banda and her charges showed what it means to wear the Zambian colours with pride – fighting back to thrash Uganda 4-1 and advance 5-3 on aggregate to the next Olympic qualifying round.

This victory is more than just about football. It is about resilience, belief and home advantage.

As Rachael Kundananji rightly put it, “We know well our stadium Levy Mwanawasa.” That statement speaks volumes about the power of home support. The Ndola crowd turned up, braved the heat, and lifted the Queens when it mattered most.

Captain Barbra Banda’s brace, coupled with goals from Natasha Nanyangwe and Eneless Phiri, shows the depth of talent in this squad under Coach Charles Haalubono.

But the journey gets tougher. Ghana awaits in February, after thrashing Mauritius 10-nil on aggregate. Ghana will not be Uganda.

Going forward, FAZ, Government and the corporate world to invest more in the Copper Queens.

Early preparations, competitive friendlies and adequate support are not a favour, but a necessity.

With adequate preparations, a place at the 2028 Olympic Games is within reach.

Ghana is beatable.

For now, congratulations Copper Queens. You have made Zambia proud.