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Banyana, Copper Queens and Gladiators Start Strong at COSAFA Championship

The 13th edition of the HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women’s Championship burst into life at the iconic Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, delivering goals, standout individual performances and early statements of intent across Groups A, B and C.

South Africa © Gallo Images

Group A: Angola and Hosts South Africa Off to Winning Starts

The tournament opened with a Group A clash between Lesotho and Angola at 12h00. Angola proved too strong on the day, securing victory in the curtain-raiser and immediately positioning themselves as serious contenders in the group. Arminda Lopes was instrumental in her side’s success and walked away with the Player of the Match accolade after a commanding performance.

In the second fixture at 15h00, hosts South Africa women's national football team thrilled the home crowd with a winning display against Malawi. Banyana Banyana showed composure and attacking fluidity as they kicked off their title charge in style. Nthabiseng Majiya’s impact did not go unnoticed, as she earned the Player of the Match award for her standout contribution in South Africa’s victory.

Group B: Zimbabwe and Zambia Take Control

Day Two shifted focus to Group B, where Eswatini and Zimbabwe locked horns in the early 12h00 encounter. Zimbabwe emerged 3-1 winners in an entertaining contest, showcasing their attacking prowess. Christabel Katona was at the heart of Zimbabwe’s dominance and deservedly claimed the Player of the Match honour.

Zambia and Botswana © Gallo Images

The afternoon fixture saw Botswana take on regional heavyweights Zambia women's national football team at 15h00. Zambia lived up to their billing with a clinical 3-0 victory, underlining their ambitions for the title. Eneless Phiri delivered a superb performance and was named Player of the Match after playing a decisive role in the Copper Queens’ commanding win.

Group C: Namibia Strike First in Three-Team Group

Group C action took centre stage on Day Three. With only three teams in the group, a single fixture was played as Mozambique faced Namibia.

The Namibia women's national football team rose to the occasion, securing a 2-0 victory to open their campaign on a strong note. Veteran Millicent Hikuam rolled back the years with an influential display and was deservedly named Player of the Match, guiding Namibia to a confident start in their quest for knockout qualification.

Namibia © Gallo Images

Round Two Fixtures Move to Seshego Stadium

The tournament now shifts to Seshego Stadium for the highly anticipated second round of matches. Entry to the stadium is free, giving supporters the perfect opportunity to witness top-tier regional women’s football live. All matches will also be broadcast live on the COSAFA YouTube Channel and FIFA Plus.

21 February – Seshego Stadium

12h30: South Africa vs Angola

15h30: Malawi vs Lesotho

22 February – Seshego Stadium

12h00: Botswana vs Eswatini

15h00: Zambia vs Zimbabwe

23 February – Seshego Stadium

15h00: Namibia vs Madagascar

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