Zambia and South Africa are set to face off in a highly anticipated final at the 2024 COSAFA Women’s Championship, promising an intense and action-packed clash between two powerhouse teams.
Both sides are riding high on recent semifinal wins, with Zambia coming in as the tournament’s only unbeaten team and South Africa leveraging the home crowd advantage in Gqeberha.
Saturday’s showdown at Wolfson Stadium will not only decide the regional champions but could also shape the players’ paths toward even bigger stages in women’s football. Here’s what fans can expect as Zambia and South Africa battle for regional supremacy.
Zambia’s Impressive Journey to the Final
Zambia’s path to the 2024 COSAFA Women’s Championship final has been nothing short of remarkable. In the semifinals, they secured a 2-0 victory over defending champions Malawi, showcasing a blend of defensive prowess and offensive precision.
Ochuba Lubanji and Fridah Mukoma capitalized on defensive errors from Malawi, netting crucial second-half goals that sealed their place in the final.
Their finishing has not only elevated Zambia’s status in the tournament but also placed both Lubanji and Mukoma at the top of the tournament’s goal-scoring chart.
Throughout the tournament, Zambia has been a formidable force, both offensively and defensively. They are the only team yet to concede a goal, an impressive statistic that speaks to their well-organized backline and the sharp reflexes of their goalkeeper.
If they maintain this form, Zambia will be in a strong position to replicate their 2022 championship win.
South Africa’s Determined Comeback in the Semifinals
South Africa’s road to the final came with more drama and tension, as they faced Mozambique in an intense semifinal that went down to the wire.
The host team endured a tricky match, with Mozambique’s Celia Miguel drawing first blood at the 34th minute.
South Africa equalized just before halftime with a penalty converted by Tshegofatso Motlogelwa, thanks to a VAR-assisted decision after Shannon Macomo was fouled in the box.
South Africa will take on Zambia for the COSAFA Championship trophy #HCWC2024 | #HereForHer pic.twitter.com/DhdmZv4eZe
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 31, 2024
After a goalless second half, the game advanced to a penalty shootout, where South Africa held their nerve, winning 4-1 and booking their place in the final.
Their resilience has earned them a spot in the championship decider and, coupled with strong fan support, could give them an edge as they attempt to secure their eighth COSAFA Women’s Championship title.
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Key Players to Watch
1. Ochuba Lubanji and Fridah Mukoma (Zambia)
Lubanji and Mukoma have been essential to Zambia’s success in this tournament. Both players displayed great composure in Zambia’s semifinal win over Malawi and currently top the goalscorer’s chart. With a strong understanding of the game and an ability to exploit defensive weaknesses, Lubanji and Mukoma will be Zambia’s main offensive threats against South Africa.
2. Tshegofatso Motlogelwa (South Africa)
Motlogelwa’s contributions have been critical for South Africa, not only converting the equalizing penalty in the semifinal but consistently showing poise under pressure. Her experience and clinical finishing could be pivotal as South Africa seeks to break Zambia’s defense, which has been impervious so far.
3. Jessica Williams (South Africa Goalkeeper)
Williams was solid in the semifinal, especially during the penalty shootout, where she helped secure the win for South Africa. With Zambia’s aggressive attacking lineup, Williams will need to be at her best, especially if the game stretches to extra time or penalties once again.
A Clash of Tactics: What to Expect in the Final
Both Zambia and South Africa bring distinct tactical approaches that make this final a compelling clash.
Zambia has relied on a highly organized defense and quick transitions to attack, making them a formidable unit that has yet to concede a goal in the tournament.
Their focus on building from the back and finding scoring opportunities from opponents’ mistakes has been effective, as seen in their semifinal performance against Malawi.
South Africa, on the other hand, tends to play a more possession-oriented game. Their passing and movement off the ball are instrumental, and they use these strengths to create chances and control the tempo of the game.
However, their defense showed some vulnerabilities in the semifinal, which Zambia’s efficient attackers could exploit. Playing on home soil with a supportive crowd, South Africa will likely try to impose their style early and keep Zambia’s attackers at bay.
ROAD TO VICTORY
Who will be crowned the 2024 Hollywoodbets COSAFA Women’s Champion?#HCWC2024 pic.twitter.com/mExTcZo6pT
— COSAFA (@COSAFAMEDIA) October 31, 2024
The High Stakes of the COSAFA Women’s Championship Final
This final goes beyond just the title; it’s an opportunity for both teams to showcase the growth and potential of women’s football in the region.
Zambia will look to add another title to their name and cement their reputation as an emerging powerhouse in African women’s football.
South Africa, with seven COSAFA Women’s Championship titles to their name, aims to retain their dominant status and build momentum for future international competitions.
How to Watch the Final
For those who can’t make it to Wolfson Stadium, where entry is free and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, the final will be streamed live on FIFA+, allowing fans from all over the world to tune in. With a kickoff time of 3 pm CAT (GMT+2), football enthusiasts can expect a thrilling afternoon as two top teams battle for glory.
Predictions: Can Zambia’s Defense Hold Against the Hosts?
Saturday’s final will test Zambia’s perfect defensive record against South Africa’s determined attack. While Zambia boasts a solid defense and in-form attackers, South Africa’s resilience and home advantage could make this a close contest.
If Zambia can maintain their composure and take advantage of South Africa’s defensive lapses, they may well secure their second COSAFA Women’s Championship title. However, should South Africa find their rhythm and capitalize on the home crowd’s energy, they could walk away as eight-time champions.
