Zambia’s Copper Princesses dominate Botswana to edge loser to COSAFA U20 final

Zambia’s U20 Women’s National Team delivered a commanding 6-0 victory over Botswana at the UJ Stadium in Johannesburg, extending their unbeaten run at the 2024 COSAFA U20 Women’s Championship. The emphatic win keeps the Copper Princesses on course for the tournament’s final as they maintain their flawless campaign.

Zambia wasted no time asserting dominance, with Jacqueline Mbewe opening the scoring in the very first minute.

Capitalizing on a defensive error, Mbewe calmly slotted the ball into the net, setting the stage for what would become a relentless attacking display.

Player of the Match Saliya Mwanza doubled the lead in the 35th minute with a stunning solo effort.

Dribbling past Botswana’s midfield, Mwanza unleashed a powerful strike that left the goalkeeper with no chance.

The Copper Princesses made it 3-0 just before halftime, with captain Mary Mbewe converting a precise pass from substitute Gift Chilwizhi.

The skipper’s clinical finish underscored Zambia’s dominance as they entered the break firmly in control.

Zambia’s offensive onslaught continued in the second half. Botswana’s Ivy Mankgatau turned substitute Ruth Muwowo’s shot into her own net in the 65th minute, further extending the lead.

Edith Phiri added to the tally 12 minutes from time, scoring a thunderous goal that drew applause from the crowd.

Ruth Muwowo capped the scoring with her fourth goal of the tournament, breezing past the Botswana defense before firing past goalkeeper Karabo Luka.

This final strike marked Zambia’s 18th goal of the competition, maintaining their perfect defensive record with no goals conceded.

The Copper Princesses now have three wins from three matches, solidifying their position at the top of the standings.

With their final group game against Mozambique scheduled for Saturday, Zambia is firmly in the driver’s seat in the five-team, round-robin tournament.

The competition format awards three points for a win and one for a draw, with the team accumulating the most points crowned champions.

Zambia’s dominant performances leave them as strong favourites to claim the title, showcasing their exceptional form and depth throughout the tournament.

The Copper Princesses’ stellar run reflects their determination and skill, and they remain on track to lift the COSAFA U20 Women’s Championship trophy.