Zambia wrapped up their campaign at the HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women’s Championship 2025 with pride, securing the bronze medal after a commanding 3-1 victory over Zimbabwe in Sunday’s third-place play-off at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.
The Copper Queens, the outgoing champions, delivered a ruthless first-half display that effectively sealed the contest before the break, as forward Agnes Phiri inspired a dominant performance with a brace to cap off an impressive tournament.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Zambia wasted no time asserting themselves. Phiri opened the scoring as early as the fourth minute, powering home past Zimbabwe goalkeeper Cynthia Shonga after being teed up by Regina Chanda. The early breakthrough settled Zambia’s nerves and handed them control of proceedings.
Phiri doubled the advantage in the 28th minute, finishing clinically from close range following a well-worked move orchestrated by Mercy Chipasula. The forward’s movement and composure in the box underlined why she would later be named Player of the match.
Chipasula then turned from provider to scorer on the stroke of half-time. Timing her run to perfection, she latched onto a searching long ball from Mapalo Maluba and calmly slotted home Zambia’s third in the 45th minute, putting the result beyond doubt before the interval.
Zimbabwe Respond, Zambia Hold Firm
Zimbabwe managed a lifeline in first-half stoppage time when Rutendo Makore reduced the deficit with her third goal of the tournament. However, the Copper Queens remained composed and disciplined after the restart.
Zambia could have extended their lead further, with Agnes Musesa, Phiri and Kabange Mupopo all going close in the second half, but the scoreline remained 3-1 as the Copper Queens comfortably saw out the match.
Namibia Shock South Africa to Lift Title
Later in the day, regional rivals Namibia stunned seven-time champions South Africa with a dramatic 2-1 victory after extra time in the final to win their first-ever COSAFA Women’s Championship crown.
South Africa had taken the lead through Nthabiseng Majiya in the first half, but Namibia responded strongly after the break. Substitute Muhinatjo Hanavi levelled matters with a long-range effort before Memory Ngonda struck early in extra time to seal a historic triumph for the Brave Gladiators.
Individual Awards
Namibia’s Zenatha Coleman was deservedly named Player of the Tournament following her influential displays for the new Champions.
Namibia goalkeeper Melissa Matheus claimed the Golden Glove, The Golden Boot went to Zimbabwe’s Rutendo Makore, who finished among the leading scorers, while South Africa picked up the Fair Play Award.
