Her Football Hub
·29 November 2024
Her Football Hub
·29 November 2024
Zambia have been crowned champions of the U20s COSAFA Championship after defeating Mozambique by a single goal, giving them an unassailable points tally in the league-structured youth competition.
Zambia have a maximum of 12 points from their four games, and have not conceded a single goal across the campaign. They needed a win from their final game against Mozambique to ensure they would take the silverware home.
The Young Copper Queens suffered an injury to star player Jessy Zulu, who was stretchered off in the 11th minute. Zulu was replaced by youth sensation Ruth Muwowo, who was the eventual joint winner in the race for the COSAFA Golden Boot with four goals in the tournament.
A single goal was enough to win the match for Zambia. Midfielder Zangose Zulu scored just before the 40th minute and her side held firm to secure the trophy.
2024 COSAFA Womens U20 Championship match between Zambia and Mozambique at the UJ Stadium, Soweto on the 23 November 2024 ©Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix/Getty
South Africa finish second in the table, with Mozambique in third. Lesotho and Botswana round off the top five. Zambia also take home an extra accolade thanks to goalkeeper Mwila Mufunte. The shot-stopper secured the Golden Glove award after impressively keeping a clean sheet in every single fixture.
Zambia prospect Muwowo and South African Adrielle Mibe shared the Golden Boot award. The duo scored four goals each in the tournament. Lesotho took home the Fair Play award for their efforts.