GRACE CHAILE
ZAMBIA’S Under-20 women’s national team etched their name deeper into Southern African football history after defending their COSAFA title in spectacular fashion, without conceding a goal throughout the tournament.
Defender Saliya Mwanza once again stood tall at the heart of Zambia’s defence, earning her third Player of the Match accolade of the competition in what was a nervy but ultimately triumphant final against perennial rivals South Africa.
Ruth Muwowo broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute before Nana Malanda unleashed a thunderbolt that sealed the deal, a strike so pure it left spectators in awe.
“What a wonder strike!” exclaimed fans as Malanda’s goal lit up the final moments of the match and dashed any hope of a South African comeback.
It was the second time in the tournament that the Copper Princesses humbled South Africa, having opened the campaign with a resounding 3-0 win over the same opponents. But the final was a much tighter affair.
“Winning the COSAFA has not been easy, especially the last game,” admitted coach Charity Nthala.
“The first match against South Africa was easier, but they gave us a real test in the final. I think the players were in a hurry at first and South Africa had the better start. But we stayed focused and finished strong and that’s a plus for our country,” she said.
Coach Nthala praised her charges for maintaining discipline and composure throughout the tournament.
“Starting well and finishing well, that’s what we aimed for, and we achieved it. Winning back-to-back is never easy.”
The Copper Princesses’ flawless run included clean sheets across all matches, highlighting a rock-solid defence while their attacking flair ensured they dominated every opponent.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) lauded the team’s achievement, with president Keith Mweemba calling the victory a significant boost to the future of women’s football in the country.
“On behalf of my executive and the entire football family, I wish to congratulate our Under-20 Women National Team for being crowned COSAFA champions,” said Mweemba.
“No doubt the future of our women’s game is bright. We will continue investing in our youth structures to sustain this success.”
Mweemba also applauded the Zambia Under-17 Boys’ Team, who earned bronze at the same tournament, despite being younger than most of their opponents.
“They were at the U-20 Cosafa as part of our wider plan to prepare for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. Winning would have been great, but development is our focus.”
