Zambia U17 Girls Outclass Mozambique 4-0 in COSAFA Opener
The Copper Princesses launched their 2025 COSAFA U17 Girls Championship title defense in style, sweeping aside Mozambique 4-0 in a one-sided encounter on Tuesday.
A brace from Ruth Mukoma and goals from Grace ‘Pogba’ Phiri and Natasha Kasema sealed the emphatic win for Coach Carol Kanyemba’s side, who now sit atop Group A after Matchday One.
Mukoma at the Double as Zambia Show Early Dominance
Zambia made their intentions clear from the outset, dominating possession and chances from the first whistle. Their early pressure paid off when Ruth Mukoma struck in the 6th minute, capitalizing on a loose ball in the box and firing a rocket into the top corner.
Grace Phiri doubled the lead in the 35th minute, finishing off a clever cut-back from Beatrice Njobvu to give the Copper Princesses a 2-0 lead at the break.
Second-Half Substitutes Shine as Zambia Seal Win
At halftime, Coach Kanyemba introduced Natasha Chileshe in place of Phiri, slightly altering the attacking shape. Although Zambia started the second half slowly, they regained momentum and reasserted their control.
Natasha Kasema added the third in the 77th minute with a stunning long-range strike, before Mukoma wrapped up her brace in the 81st minute after pouncing on a defensive error to slot home Zambia’s fourth.
Precious Mwewa also got minutes late in the game, replacing the industrious Beatrice Njobvu.
Mukoma Named Player of the Match
Two-goal hero Ruth Mukoma was deservedly named Player of the Match after a commanding attacking display that set the tone for Zambia’s campaign. Her pace, sharpness, and composure in front of goal proved too much for the Mozambican defense.
Meanwhile, Taonga Mubanga quietly bossed the midfield, controlling tempo and linking play throughout the contest.
📝 Match Summary: COSAFA U17 Girls Championship 2025 – Group A
Full-Time:
🇿🇲 Zambia 4-0 Mozambique 🇲🇿
⚽ Goalscorers:
🏅 Player of the Match: Ruth Mukoma
