HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women’s Championship 2025 commenced with entertaining start in Polokwane on Wednesday, with two exciting Group A clashes lighting up the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Angola secured a confident 3-1 victory over Lesotho in the opening fixture, setting the tone for a competitive tournament ahead.
Hosts South Africa followed that up with a solid 2-0 win against Malawi, delighting the home crowd and making a strong early statement in Group A.
The opening day delivered plenty of goals, energy and promise a fitting start to what looks set to be another thrilling edition of the regional showpiece.
The competition began on an engaging and competitive note,as an enthusiastic crowd in Polokwane created a vibrant atmosphere. Andile Dlamini led the celebrations and rallied supporters, with the home fans leaving delighted after Banyana Banyana’s impressive victory
Angola set the standard early in the tournament opening game, although Lesotho will feel they missed a chance to make the most of a bright opening. The team from the Mountain Kingdom missed several goal-scoring opportunities in the first half and were punished as Angola struck twice before the break.
Captain Arminda Lopes provided the assist for Christina Makua’s opener, before Maria Viera doubled the advantage just before half-time.
Angola kept their grip on the contest after the break and put the result beyond doubt when Lopes netted a third, capping a standout display that saw her named Player of the Match. Lesotho managed a late response, with Makhotso Moalosi finding the back of the net for a consolation goal
In the second fixture of the day, South Africa and Malawi battled in a closely contested encounter that produced limited clear-cut opportunities, as both WAFCON-bound teams opted for relatively youthful and experimental line-ups. The opening half ended in a stalemate, but Banyana Banyana managed to break the deadlock after the interval
Captain Sibulele Holweni was on hand to tap home after Sinegugu Zondi’s dead-ball delivery caused problems in the Malawi area.
South Africa wrapped up the victory with a late second goal from Bonolo Mokoma, who calmly side-footed home from close range to secure a 2-0 triumph for the hosts.