Copper Princesses Cruise, Young Chipolopolo Held by South Africa

The Region 5 Games in Windhoek, Namibia, got off to a thrilling start on Saturday as Zambia’s men’s and women’s teams delivered contrasting results in their respective Group B openers.

In the men’s competition at the UNAM Stadium, South Africa and Zambia played out a pulsating 3-3 draw in a seesaw encounter that showcased the promise of the next generation. Both nations fielded largely Under-17 squads in a strategic move to build for the future, and the young stars did not disappoint.

South Africa took an early lead through Neo Bohloko, but Zambia responded with a goal from Gabriel Phiri. Emile Witbooi restored South Africa’s advantage before Mapalo Simute and Bongani Ndhlovu netted for Zambia to put them 3-2 ahead at the break. The match remained delicately poised until the 80th minute when Njabulo Mzimela rose highest to head in the equaliser for South Africa at the back post, sealing a 3-3 draw.

Zambia’s next fixture in the men’s competition is against Eswatini on June 7, 2025, at 12:00hrs.

Meanwhile, in the women’s competition, Zambia underlined their title credentials with a commanding 3-0 win over South Africa. The reigning COSAFA Under-20 champions started their campaign in style with goals from Bwalya Chipeshe, Lweendo Hanongo, and Lombanya Mwewa.

The dominant performance places the Young Copper Queens on a strong path toward the semifinals as they prepare for their next clash against Angola on June 7, 2025, at 15:00hrs.