Uganda and Zambia played out a thrilling 1–1 draw in an evenly contested encounter, leaving the tie finely poised ahead of the return leg.

 

Roared on by home supporters, Uganda took the lead in the 22nd minute through Agnes Nabukenya. The forward capped a well-worked team move with a confident finish, sending the home crowd into celebration and giving Uganda early control of the match.

 

Zambia regrouped after the break and increased their intensity, pushing for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 59th minute when Edith Phiri rose highest to head home from close range, drawing the visitors level.

 

Both sides continued to search for a winner in an open second half, with Uganda coming agonisingly close to restoring their advantage late in the game. Nabukenya nearly doubled her tally, but her powerful free-kick crashed against the crossbar, denying the hosts a dramatic winner.

 

With the first leg ending all square, attention now turns to the return fixture in Zambia on February 14, where both teams will battle for a decisive result.