Malawi is gearing up to host the COSAFA qualifying tournament. With less than a month remaining, the eight teams competing in this regional elimination phase have been confirmed, with three clubs making notable returns.
The COSAFA regional knockout stage is scheduled to take place in Blantyre, Malawi, from 15 to 24 August.
The winner of this tournament will secure a spot in the continental finals.
Notably, two-time CAF Women’s Champions League winners and current defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns have already qualified for the continental finals and will not participate in this year’s COSAFA tournament.
Southern Africa’s Dual Representation at Continental Finals
The Southern African region will be represented by two teams in the continental finals: the Mamelodi Sundowns and the winner of the Malawi qualifiers.
Having clinched the South African Super League title in the 2023-24 season, Sundowns’ place in the COSAFA qualifiers is handed over to the runners-up, University of the Western Cape (UWC).
This will be UWC’s debut in the regional tournament after finishing second to Sundowns for three consecutive years. The Cape Town-based club is eager to seize this opportunity for continental recognition.
Clubs Returning to the Fray
Three clubs are making a return to the COSAFA qualifying tournament, bringing with them hopes of advancing further in the CAF Women’s Champions League.
Zambia’s Green Buffaloes, who triumphed over Mamelodi Sundowns in the 2022 final via penalties, are among the favorites.
This marks their fourth consecutive appearance, having reached at least the semi-finals in previous attempts.
The Young Buffaloes of Eswatini will also be competing for the third time in four years. Despite their past exits at the group stage, they are determined to make a stronger showing this year.
Namibia’s Ongos FC, previously known as TURA Magic during their first competition in 2021, are returning for another shot at the title under their new name.
Qualified Teams for COSAFA 2024 Qualifying Tournament
The eight teams set to compete in the COSAFA qualifying tournament are:
- University of the Western Cape (South Africa): Making their debut in the regional tournament after finishing as runners-up in the South African Super League for three consecutive years.
- Gaborone United (Botswana): A strong contender from Botswana, aiming to make an impact in the regional competition.
- Young Buffaloes (Eswatini): Returning for their third appearance, looking to advance beyond the group stages.
- Ascent Academy (Malawi): Representing the host nation with hopes of securing a spot in the continental finals.
- UD Lichinga (Mozambique): Competing to bring pride to Mozambique in the regional tournament.
- FC Ongos (Namibia): Returning under a new name, eager to improve on their previous performance.
- Green Buffaloes (Zambia): The 2022 champions and strong favorites, aiming to replicate their success.
- Herentals Queens (Zimbabwe): Another formidable team, representing Zimbabwe with ambitions of continental glory.
With these teams set, the stage is prepared for an intense competition in Blantyre, where only the best will advance to join Mamelodi Sundowns in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League finals.
The tournament promises to showcase the growing talent and competitiveness of women’s football in the Southern African region.
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