Zambia Edge Eswatini to Secure COSAFA Semifinal Spot

Zambia’s Under-17 national team, the Young Copper Bullets, continues to shine in the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations | COSAFA Qualifiers, securing their place in the semifinals with an unbeaten run. A narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over Eswatini capped off an impressive group stage campaign for the defending champions.

Malupande’s Magic Seals the Deal

Kafue Celtic’s rising star, Nthasilwe Malupande, delivered the decisive moment in the 13th minute with a long-range strike that proved too much for the Eswatini defense. This solitary goal was enough to see Zambia maintain their 100% record in the group stage. The team has now scored 14 goals and conceded just one across their three group games, showcasing their dominance on both ends of the pitch.

A Step Closer to Ivory Coast

With this victory, Zambia advances to the semifinals, where they will face the winner of Group C. A win in the semifinal not only secures their place in the COSAFA U-17 final but also guarantees qualification for the 2025 TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. The stakes are high, and coach Ian Bakala will look to keep his team focused as they edge closer to continental glory.

The Road Ahead

As defending champions, Zambia has lived up to expectations, combining tactical discipline with individual brilliance. With Malupande’s clinical finish and an in-form defense, the Young Copper Bullets have established themselves as favorites to win the COSAFA title once again. However, the semifinal promises to be a stern test, with their next opponents equally hungry for success.

Full-Time Results

Zambia 1-0 Eswatini
(Nthasilwe Malupande 13’)

The journey to Ivory Coast is within reach, and Zambia’s young stars are determined to seize the opportunity. As the COSAFA Qualifiers progress, all eyes will be on the Young Copper Bullets to see if they can replicate their group stage success in the knockout rounds.