Zimbabwe Shines as Southern Africa’s Rising Stars Take Centre Stage

The curtain has come down on what will be remembered as one of the most inspiring football spectacles in recent years: the COSAFA U-17 Boys Championship, proudly hosted by Zimbabwe. The ten-day tournament, played across Ngoni MWOS Stadium in Norton and Heart Stadium in Harare, not only showcased the next generation of African football talent but also underlined Zimbabwe’s renewed position on the continental football map following the lifting of the FIFA ban.In a thrilling final at the packed Ngoni MWOS Stadium, South Africa’s Amajimbos cemented their dominance with a 2 -1 victory over Angola, claiming the coveted trophy. Omphemetso Sekgoto opened the scoring in the fifth minute, sparking wild celebrations from the vocal South African contingent. Angola, resilient and determined, drew level midway through the second half through Pedro Antonio, the tournament’s Golden Boot winner. However, the Amajimbos showed grit and composure, restoring their lead in the 79th minute when Siyabonga Mbongo netted the decisive goal. The final whistle confirmed South Africa’s unbeaten run and historic triumph, which not only crowned them champions of Southern Africa but also secured their qualification for the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

They will be joined at the continental showpiece by Angola and Mozambique, who defeated Comoros 3–0 in the third-place playoff. For all three teams, the COSAFA Championship served as both a battleground and a stepping stone, proving that the region’s conveyor belt of talent remains as strong as ever.

Recognising Excellence

The tournament was also an opportunity to celebrate individual brilliance. South Africa’s Omphemetse Sekgoto was named Player of the Tournament, his dazzling skills and leadership catching the eye throughout. Angola’s Pedro Antonio finished as Golden Boot winner with an impressive eight goals, while his compatriot Gelson Dala took home the Golden Glove award, conceding only two goals in the entire competition. Mozambique, who played with admirable spirit and discipline, were fitting recipients of the Fair Play Award.

Leaders Celebrate a Landmark Tournament

From the pitch to the podium, the final celebrations were graced by the region’s football leadership. COSAFA President Sahid Ali, Executive Director Sue Destombes, CAF Vice President Feizal Sidat, ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi, ZIFA Competitions Chair Professor Thomas Marambanyika, and Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Dr Eugenia Chidhakwa, were present to hand medals to the young heroes.

COSAFA President, Sahid Ali, praised both the quality of football and Zimbabwe’s exceptional hosting. “This tournament has reminded us of the power of football to unite, inspire, and showcase talent. Zimbabwe has delivered not just a competition, but an experience of excellence. The organisation, the passion from fans, and the energy from the young players have set a new standard for COSAFA tournaments. We are proud to have seen such an exciting edition, and we thank ZIFA and the people of Zimbabwe for making it a reality.”

For Zimbabwe, the successful hosting was more than a logistical triumph – it was a symbolic re-entry into the international football family. ZIFA President, Nqobile Magwizi, expressed his pride and gratitude. “This was not just about football matches, it was about restoring confidence, building partnerships, and showing the world that Zimbabwe is ready to take its rightful place in global football. The fans came out in numbers, the facilities were vibrant, and our collaboration with COSAFA has been exemplary. This is the beginning of a new chapter for Zimbabwean football, one rooted in renewal, opportunity, and pride.”

Dr Eugenia Chidhakwa, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, hailed the tournament as a milestone for sport in Zimbabwe. “Hosting the COSAFA U-17 Championship was an opportunity to demonstrate our capacity as a nation, not only in organising but also in embracing sport as a vehicle for community empowerment and youth development. The government is proud of the role played by ZIFA, COSAFA, and all stakeholders in ensuring this event’s success. The energy from the fans and the inspiration given to our young people cannot be underestimated. This tournament has laid a foundation for future international events in Zimbabwe.”

Fans Bring the Stadia to Life

One of the standout features of the Championship was the impressive fan attendance. Throughout the tournament, both Ngoni MWOS Stadium and Heart Stadium were filled with colour, song, and celebration. From schoolchildren in uniform cheering loudly to community members waving flags and blowing vuvuzelas, the atmosphere was electric. For many in Norton and Harare, the tournament was more than just football – it was a festival, a reminder of the unifying power of sport, and a chance to witness future stars on home soil.The packed terraces reflected not only Zimbabweans’ enduring love for football but also the renewed trust in ZIFA’s ability to host major events. Families came in their numbers, young aspiring footballers found new role models, and communities rallied together to celebrate African football.

A Victory for Zimbabwe

For the host nation, the COSAFA U-17 Championship was not simply a tournament; it was a statement. After years of challenges, including the isolation brought about by the FIFA ban, Zimbabwe’s successful hosting has opened a new window of opportunity. The organisation of the event demonstrated professionalism, resilience, and vision.

The smiles of the young players receiving their medals, the excitement of fans streaming out of the stadiums, and the applause from regional leaders all echoed one clear message: Zimbabwe is back.

As the trophy lifted by the Amajimbos sparkled under the Norton sun, the real victory belonged to the entire region – and to Zimbabwe in particular. The COSAFA U-17 Championship has left behind more than results and records; it has sown seeds of belief, unity, and progress.For ZIFA, COSAFA, and the government, this is only the beginning. More tournaments, more opportunities, and more triumphs lie ahead. Football has once again proven to be more than just a game. It is a bridge between nations, a tool for empowerment, and a beacon of hope.

The curtain may have fallen on the 2025 edition, but the echoes of cheering fans and the memories of brilliant young players will live long in Zimbabwean football history. With determination, collaboration, and vision, the future promises even greater moments for Zimbabwe on the continental stage.

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