ZESCO Ndola Girls underlined their status as one of the leading contenders at the CAF Women’s Champions League | COSAFA Qualifier Botswana 2026 after defeating hosts Gaborone United 2-0 to finish top of Group A with a perfect record.
The Zambian side collected nine points from three matches at the Gaborone United Stadium, securing a place in the semi-finals after another impressive display against the defending champions.
ZESCO made the perfect start, taking the lead inside the opening minute when Eneless Phiri’s corner found Charity Mubanga, who rose above the defence to power a header into the net.
Gaborone United responded with sustained pressure as they searched for an equaliser, but ZESCO remained disciplined and resilient as the contest developed into a physical battle.
The Zambian champions eventually put the result beyond doubt in the 87th minute when Avell Chitundu converted from close range with a header to seal a 2-0 victory.
The result means ZESCO Ndola Girls complete the group stage unbeaten, while Gaborone United advance to the semi-finals as Group A runners-up.
For Gaborone United, the defeat was their first in regulation time at the regional finals. Their only previous loss in the competition had come on penalties in the 2024 final.
ZESCO Ndola Girls will now await the outcome of Group B to discover their semi-final opponents, with two-time African champions Mamelodi Sundowns among the teams still battling for a place in the last four.
The semi-finalists from Group B will be decided on Tuesday, with Silver Strikers facing Nsingizini Hotspurs before Sundowns take on Costa do Sol.
All matches are being streamed live on FIFA+ and the COSAFA YouTube channel.
