South Africa win COSAFA U17 title, match Zambia’s Record

South Africa were crowned champions of the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations | COSAFA Qualifiers after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Angola in the final at Ngoni Stadium in Harare on Saturday.

The win marks South Africa’s fourth COSAFA U17 title, equaling Zambia’s record as the most successful nation in the tournament’s history.

 COSAFA U17 Final: South Africa 2-1 Angola

South Africa made a dream start when Omphemetse Sekgoto opened the scoring in the 5th minute, the first goal Angola had conceded all tournament. Backed by a passionate Zimbabwean crowd, South Africa controlled possession and tempo throughout the first half.

Angola responded in the second half with the introduction of Pedro Antonio, the tournament’s top scorer. He netted his eighth goal of the competition in the 67th minute to level the score.

However, South Africa showed resilience. Substitute Siyabonga Mbongo scored the decisive goal in the 79th minute, sealing the win and the title.

Qualified for AFCON U17 2026

• South Africa
• Angola
• Mozambique

These three nations will represent the COSAFA region at the 2026 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.

 Third-Place Playoff: Mozambique 3-0 Comoros

Mozambique secured third place with a dominant 3-0 win over 10-man Comoros. Joaquim Mubai opened the scoring in the 38th minute, while Marcos Lazaro added a brace (57’, 75’). Comoros’ hopes were dashed after Naim Houdjati was sent off just after the hour mark.

COSAFA U17 2026 Awards

• Player of the Tournament: Omphemetse Sekgoto (South Africa)
• Golden Boot: Pedro Antonio (Angola) – 8 goals
• Golden Glove: Gelson Dala (Angola) – 2 goals conceded
• Fair Play Award: Mozambique

 Tournament Stats

• Matches Played: 22
• Goals Scored: 79
• Biggest Wins:
  • Angola 7-0 Mauritius (Group C)
  • South Africa 7-0 Comoros (Semifinal)