South Africa U20 retain COSAFA title after victory over 10-man Mozambique

South Africa U20 beat Mozambique 2-1 in the final of the 2026 CAF U20 COSAFA qualifiers at ABB 1 Stadium in Matola on Sunday to retain their regional title.

Oarabile Booysen and Steven Mendes scored for Amajita, while Martinho Comecar replied for the hosts. Mozambique finished the match with 10 players after Milton Macumbe was sent off for a rough tackle on Mendes.

Mozambique began aggressively, pushing into the South African penalty area from the opening whistle. Goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba had to remain alert as Comecar posed a constant threat from the right wing.

Comecar came close to opening the scoring in the 10th minute after a strong individual run, but his powerful shot flew over the crossbar. Three minutes later, South Africa created an opportunity of their own when Emile Witbooi combined with Mendes, whose effort was blocked by the Mozambican goalkeeper.

The hosts continued to look dangerous, with Comecar sending another attempt narrowly past the Amajita goal. South Africa responded in the 19th minute when Egan Freese headed into the net following a combination with Manelis Mazibuko, although the effort was ruled out for offside.

Mazibuko then saw a clear chance saved in the 23rd minute before missing another opportunity to turn the ball home. South Africa’s continued pressure eventually paid off when Booysen produced an excellent finish from outside the box in the 27th minute.

Mozambique levelled almost immediately. Kine Maurer found Comecar, who took advantage of Mazhamba being out of position to beat the South African defence and make it 1-1 a minute after the opener.

South Africa pressed for a second goal before half-time. Captain Lazola Maku saw a long-range effort comfortably held by the goalkeeper, while Khensane Machel sent a volley into the side-netting.

The second half began 30 minutes late after the match commentator said the delay was caused by the need to address the high number of spectators at the stadium. Neither side made immediate changes.

Freese tested the goalkeeper four minutes after the restart, but his effort was saved. South Africa continued to apply pressure and were awarded a penalty after Witbooi was fouled in the box by the goalkeeper.

Mendes converted in the 58th minute to restore Amajita’s lead and claim the golden boot, taking his tournament tally to six goals.

Mozambique continued to search for an equaliser. Mazhamba made an important save to deny Hissen Socrate during the final 20 minutes, while Diego Pelembe shot wide.

Raymond Mdaka’s side held on to secure the victory and retain the title. Both South Africa U20 and Mozambique, known as Mambinhas, will represent COSAFA at next year’s U20 continental finals in Ghana.