South Africa Crowned COSAFA U20 Champions After Beating Hosts Mozambique
South Africa have been crowned the 2026 COSAFA Under-20 champions after defeating hosts Mozambique 2-1 in a closely contested final played in Maputo on Sunday.
The final brought together Mozambique, the tournament hosts, and South Africa, with the two sides battling for the regional title in front of their home supporters.
South Africa opened the scoring through Oarabile Booysen, who put his side ahead and gave the Young Bafana Bafana an early advantage.
Mozambique responded through Martinho Começar, with the home side restoring parity and keeping the final finely balanced.
South Africa, however, found the decisive goal through Steven Mendes, whose strike gave the visitors a 2-1 lead and ultimately secured the championship.
The result completed a strong tournament for South Africa, who held their nerve in the final to lift the COSAFA U20 trophy in Maputo.
South African youngster Emile Witbooi was also among the standout performers of the tournament. He was named Player of the Match for his performance in the final.
South Africa and Mozambique Qualify for U20 AFCON 2027
The two finalists also secured qualification for the 2027 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, meaning both South Africa and Mozambique will represent the COSAFA region at the continental tournament.
Their qualification adds further significance to their performances in Maputo, as both teams now turn their attention to the next stage of the competition on the African continent.
Individual Awards
Several players were recognised for their performances throughout the tournament.
Best Player:
🇲🇿 Alírio Cuna
The Mozambique midfielder was named the tournament’s Best Player after a standout campaign for the hosts.
Top Scorer:
🇿🇦 Steven Mendes
The South African forward finished the tournament as the leading scorer and collected the Golden Boot after his impressive run in front of goal.
Best Goalkeeper:
🇿🇦 Takalani Mazhamba
Mazhamba was recognised as the tournament’s best goalkeeper following a series of strong performances between the posts.
Namibia Receive Fair Play Award
Namibia were recognised with the Fair Play Award, highlighting their conduct and sportsmanship during the tournament.
The award reflected a tournament that featured competitive football alongside an emphasis on respect and sportsmanship.
With South Africa crowned champions and both finalists securing places at the 2027 U20 AFCON, the 2026 COSAFA U20 Championship in Maputo concluded with the regional teams now preparing for the next continental challenge.
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