Warriors Exit COSAFA Cup Despite Inspired Win Over Mozambique

Zimbabwe’s national football team, the Warriors, concluded their 2025 COSAFA Cup campaign on a high note with an impressive 3-1 victory over Mozambique, but it wasn’t enough to secure progression to the next stage of the regional tournament.

The spirited display came too late for the Warriors, who were edged out of Group A on goal difference despite finishing level on four points with South Africa.

Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya was the standout star of the match, delivering a well-taken brace that gave Zimbabwe an early advantage and kept hopes alive. Mozambique managed to pull one back, momentarily threatening a comeback, but Junior Makunike’s clinical stoppage-time strike sealed the win and brought the crowd to its feet.

Unfortunately for Zimbabwe, their earlier results left little room for error. A frustrating 1-1 draw in their tournament opener against Mauritius, followed by a 2-0 loss to South Africa, placed them in a difficult position heading into the final group game. They needed a convincing win and favorable results from other matches, but the goal difference scenario ultimately denied them a place in the semi-finals.

“It’s disappointing to go out despite such a strong finish,” said one of the Warriors’ coaching staff. “But today’s performance shows the quality this team possesses and the direction we’re heading.”

The Warriors’ display against Mozambique offered glimpses of the attacking flair and resilience that fans have been longing to see. Ngwenya’s composure in front of goal and Makunike’s late impact underscored the depth of talent available in the squad.

While the early exit is a setback, the performance in their final match provides a platform on which to build. With a mix of promising young players and experienced campaigners, Zimbabwe will look to regroup and prepare for upcoming qualifiers and regional competitions with renewed focus.

The Warriors may be out of the COSAFA Cup, but their fighting spirit and final flourish remind fans that the journey continues — and the future still holds promise.