Sithembinkosi L Jiyane
Sports Reporter
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
When the final whistle blew at the COSAFA Under-17 and CAF U17 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers in Harare, it marked more than the end of a youth tournament; it signaled the rebirth of Zimbabwean football.
For the first time in history, Zimbabwe hosted the prestigious U17 competitions. While the Warriors exited the tournament in the early stages, the event showcased the nation’s capability to host international football with organisation, hospitality, and vision.
Matches at Ngoni Stadium and Heart Stadium were packed with fans, the atmosphere electric, and the passion palpable.
Mayor Jacob Mafume praised the tournament’s impact:
“Harare’s economy boomed during the games, while the presence of thousands of fans demonstrated football’s unique ability to unite people across class, culture, and creed.”
Historic advancements included the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, a first for Zimbabwe and the Southern African region. Ten Zimbabwean referees were fully certified after rigorous training, elevating the country as a hub for refereeing excellence.
CAF Vice President Feizal Sidat and COSAFA President Sahid Ali attended the semi-finals and finals, signaling strong confidence in Zimbabwe’s hosting capabilities.
During a tour of the ZIFA headquarters, they expressed admiration for the leadership of President Nqobile Magwizi and his executive team.
COSAFA Vice President Timothy Shongwe highlighted the organisation’s support.
“If the new ZIFA executive wishes to host another tournament soon, COSAFA and CAF will readily assist.”
The tournament’s heart, however, was the young players themselves. Their performance underscored football as a tool for youth development, teaching discipline, teamwork, and resilience. United Nations Resident Coordinator Edward Kallon emphasized the sport’s broader impact.
“Football is more than a game. It is a universal language and a powerful antidote to the scourge of drug abuse threatening our youth.”
Government support was also evident, with the Ministry of Sport’s Acting Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chidhakwa, affirming state commitment to youth development and football infrastructure.
Stakeholders such as the Bridging Gaps Foundation (BGF) were recognised for contributing to stadium upgrades, while TotalEnergies, COSAFA, and local sponsors including Probottlers, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and Simbisa ensured the tournament’s success.
President Magwizi hailed the event as a victory of vision, courage, and faith in football’s unifying power.
“This tournament demonstrates that football is not just a game; it is a tool for social transformation, economic growth, and national pride.”
From roaring crowds to referees in VAR booths, Zimbabwe’s hosting of the COSAFA U17 Championship and CAF qualifiers proved a defining moment. The message was clear: Zimbabwe is back on the African football stage, ready to compete, host, and inspire the next generation of football talent.
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