Zimbabwe’s Brave COSAFA U17 Girls Championship Journey Ends in Semifinal Heartbreak

Zimbabwe’s impressive run in the 2025 COSAFA U17 Girls Championship came to an emotional end after a 5-1 semifinal defeat to defending champions Zambia. Despite the scoreline, the Young Mighty Warriors displayed heart, resilience, and flashes of brilliance that earned them admiration across the region.

The match, played at a packed venue in South Africa, began with high intensity from both sides. Zambia struck first, finding the back of the net in the opening half. However, Zimbabwe’s goalkeeper Tanyaradzwa Nyakuchena kept her team in the contest with a string of spectacular saves, anchoring a defense that worked tirelessly to repel Zambia’s attacking waves.

In the second half, the defending champions stepped up the pressure. A perfectly placed free kick in the 65th minute doubled Zambia’s lead, but Zimbabwe refused to back down. Just eight minutes later, striker Winnie Mapuwa, who has been in superb form throughout the tournament, pulled one back for Zimbabwe—her fifth goal of the championship. Her finish reignited belief among players and fans alike.

However, the momentum was short-lived. Within minutes, Zambia scored a third goal—one that immediately drew controversy. Spectators and fans questioned its legitimacy, with many believing the scorer was in an offside position. The goal shifted the mood in the stadium and sapped Zimbabwe’s growing momentum.

“Winnie had just given us hope again,” said a passionate supporter, Tendai Marombedza. “But that third goal changed everything. It didn’t look right. Our girls were fighting, and our keeper was phenomenal.”

Zambia would go on to score two more late goals, sealing a dominant victory and booking their place in the final. For Zimbabwe, the dream of reaching the championship match came to an end—but not without leaving a lasting impression.

Throughout the tournament, the Young Mighty Warriors impressed with their commitment, teamwork, and raw talent. Goalkeeper Tanyaradzwa Nyakuchena emerged as one of the competition’s standout performers, while striker Winnie Mapuwa proved herself as a clinical forward with an eye for goal.

Despite the loss, there’s a strong sense of optimism about the future of Zimbabwean women’s football. This spirited U17 side has not only represented the nation with pride but also showcased the kind of potential that bodes well for the senior national team in years to come.

As the curtain falls on their COSAFA 2025 campaign, the Young Mighty Warriors walk away with heads held high—and a growing fan base eager to see what they will achieve next.