Zambia emerged victorious in the Hollywoodbets Cosafa Women’s Championship final, edging out hosts South Africa 4-3 in a nail-biting penalty shootout after a goalless draw at Wolfson Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday. The win secured Zambia’s second Cosafa title, adding to their 2022 triumph, while South Africa missed out on reclaiming the crown they last held in 2020.
The Copper Queens started strongly, dominating possession in the early stages and pressing SA in their own half. Despite Zambia's control, they struggled to create clear scoring opportunities. Their best chance came in the 12th minute when a set-piece gave Pauline Zulu a shot on goal, but she sent it over the bar.
Banyana had a major opportunity to score just before halftime. Tshegofatso Motlogelwa’s corner led to a spill by Zambia's goalkeeper, but Asanda Hadebe couldn't convert on the loose ball.
In the second half, Banyana took control, with Isabella Ludwig narrowly missing the target with a long-range effort. Nobahle Mdelwa briefly celebrated a goal in the 53rd minute, but VAR ruled it out. Later, Zambia’s Lungowe Namasiku had a one-on-one chance against Banyana's keeper, Jessica Williams, who made a crucial save. Despite further efforts from both sides, including an attempt by Shannon Macomo after a defensive miscue from Zambia, the game remained scoreless and went into extra time.
Neither team managed to break the deadlock in extra time, sending the match to penalties. Zambia held their nerve, converting four of their spot-kicks to secure the championship.
The tournament's individual awards were widely shared. Ludwig was named Player of the Tournament, while Zambia’s Ochumba Lubanji and Fridah Mukoma both claimed the Golden Boot with four goals each. Williams won the Golden Glove for her excellent goalkeeping, and Zambia took home the Fair Play award.
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