Copper Princesses Set for Zambezi Derby in COSAFA U17 Semifinals
Defending champions Zambia U17 Women’s National Team will face familiar foes Zimbabwe in the semifinals of the 2025 COSAFA U17 Girls’ Championship on Friday, 16 May at 12h00 at the Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek, Namibia.
The encounter sets up a highly anticipated Zambezi derby, as the Copper Princesses look to defend their title and book a place in the final for the second consecutive year.
Flawless Group Stage Propels Zambia into Final Four
Zambia qualified for the semifinals as Group B winners, finishing the group stage with a perfect record. They scored 13 goals without conceding, showcasing both attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Coach Carol Kanyemba’s side began their campaign with a comfortable 4-0 win over Mozambique, followed by a commanding 9-0 demolition of Mauritius, where Hellen Banda netted a hat-trick and earned Player of the Match honours.
Zimbabwe Eyeing Upset After Group C Success
Zambia’s semifinal opponents Zimbabwe topped Group C to secure their spot in the last four. The Young Mighty Warriors demonstrated grit and discipline throughout their group fixtures and are now aiming to upset the defending champions and reach the final.
Zambia and Zimbabwe have a long-standing rivalry in regional football, and this matchup promises to be one of the most intense of the tournament.
COSAFA U17 Semifinal Fixtures
📍 Venue: Hage Geingob Stadium, Windhoek, Namibia
📆 Date: Friday, 16 May 2025
🕛 12h00: Zambia 🇿🇲 vs Zimbabwe 🇿🇼
🕒 15h00: Malawi 🇲🇼 vs Mozambique 🇲🇿
Copper Princesses Focused on the Final
Coach Kanyemba has a full-strength squad heading into the semifinal and will rely on the form of key players such as Hellen Banda, Ruth Mukoma, and Precious Mwape to power Zambia into the final.
The Copper Princesses will be wary of a disciplined Zimbabwe side, but with their fluid attacking play and solid defence, Zambia will go into the clash as favourites.
