The Zambia U17 Girls National Team are champions of Southern Africa once again after cruising to a 3-0 win over Malawi in the 2025 COSAFA U17 Girls Championship final. A commanding first-half performance was enough to seal back-to-back titles for the Copper Princesses in a match played with intensity, precision, and flair.
Perfect Campaign Ends in Style
Zambia entered the final boasting an incredible tournament run—18 goals scored and only one conceded across three matches. That momentum carried into the final, and it didn’t take long for the team to impose themselves.
In the 24th minute, Ruth Mukoma opened the scoring with a sensational burst of pace, gliding past defenders before calmly finishing past the Malawian goalkeeper. Just three minutes later, Mukoma turned provider, feeding Natasha Kasema, who struck home her third goal of the tournament to double Zambia’s lead.
The third goal came just before halftime, with Gift Chisha Mazimba reacting quickest in the box to poke home and make it 3-0. Despite a goalless second half, Zambia’s dominance was never in question.
Standout Performers Shine Bright
While the team effort was superb, Taonga ‘Big Six’ Mubanga earned the Player of the Match accolade for her all-round brilliance in midfield. Meanwhile, Ruth Mukoma was deservedly named the Player of the Tournament, a fitting recognition for her pivotal role in Zambia’s title defense.
In goal, Bukata Kakumbi was immense throughout the tournament and walked away with the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award. The tournament’s Top Scorer was Nancy Lebang of Namibia, who netted an impressive seven goals, while Malawi received the Fair Play Award.
Bronze for Mozambique in 5-Goal Thriller
Earlier in the day, Mozambique edged Zimbabwe 3-2 in an action-packed third-place playoff to clinch the bronze medal, finishing the tournament on a high note.
🏆 COSAFA U17 Girls Championship 2025 Final
Full-Time:
🇿🇲 Zambia 3–0 Malawi 🇲🇼
Goals:
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Ruth Mukoma (24’)
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Natasha Kasema (27’)
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Gift Mazimba (45’)
🟩 Zambia U17 Girls – Tournament Highlights:
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🥇 Champions (Back-to-Back Titles)
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⚽ 21 Goals Scored, 1 Conceded
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⭐ Ruth Mukoma: Player of the Tournament
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🧤 Bukata Kakumbi: Goalkeeper of the Tournament
