South Africa are COSAFA U17 champions after win over Angola

South Africa clinched the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations | COSAFA Qualifiers title with a hard-fought 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.

Final Match Recap: South Africa 2–1 Angola

South Africa made a dream start when Omphemetse Sekgoto scored in the 5th minute — the first goal Angola had conceded in the tournament. Backed by a passionate Zimbabwean crowd, South Africa dominated possession and went into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

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

Despite Angola’s momentum, South Africa held firm. Substitute Siyabonga Mbongo netted the winner in the 79th minute, securing the title.

Third-Place Playoff: Mozambique 3–0 Comoros

Earlier in the day, Mozambique secured the final qualification spot for the 2026 CAF U-17 Afcon with a commanding 3-0 win over 10-man Comoros.

Joaquim Mubai opened the scoring in the 38th minute.

Marcos Lazaro added a brace in the 57th and 75th minutes.

Comoros’ challenge was further weakened when Naim Houdjati was sent off just after the hour mark.

Qualified for CAF U-17 Afcon 2026

South Africa

Angola

Mozambique

These three nations will represent the COSAFA region at the continental finals next year.

Individual 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 Statistics

Matches Played: 22
Goals Scored: 79
Biggest Wins:
Angola 7–0 Mauritius (Group C)
South Africa 7–0 Comoros (Semifinal)
Most Goals in a Match: 7 (twice)