South Africa triumphed in both the Boys’ and Girls’ divisions at the CAF African Schools Football Championship COSAFA Qualifier in Harare, Zimbabwe, securing their spots in next year’s continental finals.
The Boys’ team emerged victorious over Malawi in the final, which ended in a 1-1 draw but saw South Africa win 3-0 in a penalty shootout.
Okestar Kanyenda of Malawi initially put his team ahead, but Rhys Ferguson of South Africa equalized, leading to the decisive penalties. In this shootout, South Africa was flawless, while Malawi missed all attempts.
In the Girls’ competition, South Africa claimed a 3-1 win over Botswana. Star player Khwezi Khoza scored twice, contributing to her tournament-leading 11 goals, and Rethabile Molefe also found the net. Botswana’s lone goal was scored by Amogelang Sebotho.
The Boys’ bronze medal went to Zimbabwe, who edged out Namibia 1-0. Mozambique took the Girls’ bronze with a commanding 4-0 win over Namibia, thanks to a remarkable four-goal performance from Isabel Cuinhane.
South Africa’s Simama Inganathi was named the top player in the Boys’ category, with teammate Sabrie Losper winning the Golden Glove.
Rhys Ferguson and Zimbabwe’s Sadomba shared the Golden Boot. The Girls’ top honors went to South Africa’s Katleho Malebana as Player of the Tournament, with Angel Zibula winning the Golden Glove and Khoza the Golden Boot. Zimbabwe and Namibia received the Fair Play awards in the Boys’ and Girls’ categories, respectively.
