Zambia lifted the 2024 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women’s Championship trophy on Saturday, overcoming hosts South Africa 4-3 in a tense penalty shootout after a goalless draw in regulation and extra time. The Copper Queens’ victory at the final in Gqeberha marked their second COSAFA title, adding to their previous win in 2022, while South Africa’s Banyana Banyana were left disappointed, missing out on a title that has eluded them since 2020.
The match opened with Zambia pressing hard, dominating possession in South Africa’s half as they looked to assert early control.
Yet despite their strong start, Zambia struggled to create concrete chances, with South Africa’s defence holding firm.
A promising opportunity arose in the 12th minute when Zambia won a free kick just outside the box, but Pauline Zulu’s effort flew high over the crossbar, missing the mark.
As the first half progressed, Banyana Banyana began to grow into the game, and in the 41st minute, they almost took the lead.
A well-taken corner by Tshegofatso Motlogelwa led to a scramble in the box after Zambian goalkeeper Leticia Lungu fumbled her save.
However, Asanda Hadebe failed to capitalize on the loose ball, allowing Zambia to clear the danger.
The second half saw South Africa start brightly, with midfielder Isabella Ludwig narrowly missing the target with a powerful shot from distance.
In the 53rd minute, the hosts thought they had finally broken the deadlock when Nobahle Mdelwa struck a shot into the net, but after a VAR review, the goal was ruled out, leaving the scoreline unchanged.
Zambia then found their rhythm again, and in the 65th minute, Lungowe Namasiku came close to putting her side ahead in a one-on-one with South Africa’s goalkeeper Jessica Williams, who made a crucial save to keep her team level.
As the game wore on, South Africa had another chance to score in the 78th minute, but Mdelwa failed to convert after being set up by Hadebe, and the match went into extra time.
Neither side managed to find a decisive goal in the additional 30 minutes, setting the stage for a nerve-racking penalty shootout.
Zambia showed their composure from the spot, ultimately emerging victorious with a 4-3 scoreline to claim the championship.
Individual honours were also awarded after the match, with South Africa’s Ludwig receiving the Player of the Tournament accolade.
The Golden Boot was jointly awarded to Zambian forwards Ochumba Lubanji and Fridah Mukoma, both finishing the tournament with four goals each.
Williams, who kept South Africa in the game with several vital saves, took home the Golden Glove, while Zambia claimed the Fair Play Award for their disciplined performances throughout the competition.
For Zambia, the victory not only solidifies their position as a growing force in African women’s football but also serves as a testament to their resilience and team spirit in a hard-fought final.
