Zimbabwe’s Under-17 national football team began their 2025 COSAFA campaign on a disappointing note, falling 1-0 to Mozambique at Ngoni Stadium on Thursday afternoon. A solitary early goal was enough to hand the Young Warriors a bitter introduction to the regional tournament, leaving them with plenty to do in their upcoming fixtures.
The decisive moment of the encounter arrived in just the eighth minute when Mozambique struck through forward Chauson Nhabanga. The goal was the result of a well-executed move, as Nhabanga met a cross from Allan de Figuereido, who was later named Man of the Match. Zimbabwe’s defence, caught flat-footed by the quick attack, could not recover in time to prevent the finish.
From then on, it was an uphill battle for the hosts. The Young Warriors tried to regroup and chase the equaliser, but their rhythm was disrupted early. Mozambique, buoyed by their opener, maintained a disciplined shape, limiting Zimbabwe’s ability to create clear-cut chances.
Despite enjoying moments of possession, Zimbabwe lacked sharpness in the final third. Their build-up play was often promising, but the delivery in key areas failed to trouble the Mozambican defence. Striker Tadiwa Chakuchichi worked tirelessly upfront, yet he received little service as Mozambique crowded him out whenever the ball reached his feet.
Zimbabwe stumble in COSAFA U-17 opener with narrow defeat to Mozambique
The Young Warriors’ midfield, anchored by Munashe Ncube and Jameson Nduna, tried to impose themselves, but they were constantly pressed by Mozambique’s hard-working trio of Diego Pelembe, Sheldon Sitoe, and Steys Jose. Zimbabwe’s best chance of the half came when Darrel Zulu tried a speculative shot from outside the box, but it sailed narrowly over the bar, much to the relief of Mozambican goalkeeper Ricardo Vilanculos.
Coach adjustments at halftime showed Zimbabwe’s intent to chase the game. Fortune Ncube replaced Tapiwa Mautsa at the break, while later substitutions saw Irvine Mtungwazi, Tapiwa Gutu, and Dwayne Musona injected into the side to bring more attacking impetus. However, despite the fresh legs, the Young Warriors could not break through Mozambique’s resolute defending.
On the Mozambican side, Pascal Miambo and Pirez Vieira were particularly solid at the back, while Seoul Kante, who was replaced in the 70th minute, controlled the midfield with composure. Mozambique’s coach made tactical substitutions late in the game, bringing in Jonas Mitusse and Kristoff Machava to shore up the result. Their disciplined approach ensured they preserved the slender lead until the final whistle.
The defeat leaves Zimbabwe with no margin for error as they prepare for their second group match against Eswatini on Saturday. The fixture is now crucial for the Young Warriors’ hopes of progressing beyond the group stages. A loss would all but eliminate them from contention, while a win could keep their campaign alive.
Analysts noted that Zimbabwe’s young side showed flashes of promise but struggled with decision-making in the attacking third. They also highlighted the need for better communication at the back, as the early goal stemmed from a lapse in organisation.
The COSAFA Under-17 tournament is not only about results but also about development, and Zimbabwe’s technical team will no doubt focus on using the experience to build stronger, more cohesive performances in upcoming matches. Still, the disappointment was evident at full-time, as players trudged off the field knowing they had let their home fans down in the opener.
Mozambique, on the other hand, celebrated their strong start. With three points already secured, they will approach their next match with confidence and a chance to consolidate their position in the group.
Line-ups:
Zimbabwe: Siyanda Zimba, Seth Musarapachena, Tapiwa Mautsa (Fortune Ncube, 46’), Prince Chimwakale (Tawananyashe Chisuse, 90’), Ashley Murapa, Munashe Ncube, Jameson Nduna (Irvine Mtungwazi, 70’), Darrel Zulu, Elshaddai Sadomba (Tapiwa Gutu, 74’), Tatenda Maulidi (Dwayne Musona, 74’), Tadiwa Chakuchichi.
Mozambique: Ricardo Vilanculos, Pirez Vieira, Allan de Figuereido, Pascal Miambo, Sheldon Sitoe, Seoul Kante (Valentine Pecame, 70’), Diego Pelembe, Steys Jose, Chauson Nhabanga, Marcos Lazaro (Kristoff Machava, 90’), Joachim Mubai (Jonas Mitusse, 72’).
For the Young Warriors, the loss serves as a reminder of the competitiveness of regional football and the importance of starting strongly. With the crowd behind them, they will be desperate to bounce back against Eswatini and keep their COSAFA journey alive.
Source- Herald
