Namibia claimed their maiden Hollywoodbets COSAFA Women’s Championship title after a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over seven-time champions South Africa at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday.
South Africa, playing on home soil, took the lead in the 37th minute through Nthabiseng Majiya, who finished off a Sinegugu Zondi assist to hand Banyana Banyana a deserved first-half advantage.
However, the Brave Gladiators showed resilience after the break. Substitute Muhinatjo Hanavi brought Namibia level nine minutes into the second half with a stunning long-range effort that caught the goalkeeper off her line.
With the sides locked at 1-1 after regulation time, the final moved into extra time. Memory Ngonda struck just two minutes into the additional period, finishing from a Zenatha Coleman assist to seal a historic victory for Namibia.
Despite late pressure from South Africa, including a near-equaliser that rattled the woodwork, Namibia held firm to secure their first-ever COSAFA Women’s Championship crown.
Earlier in the day, Zambia claimed third place with a 3-1 win over Zimbabwe.
In the individual accolades, Namibia’s Melissa Matheus walked away with the Golden Glove, while teammate Zenatha Coleman was named Player of the Tournament. Zimbabwe’s Rutendo Makore shared the Golden Boot with three goals, alongside Malawi’s Deborah Henry and Ireen Khumalo, and Lesotho’s Makhotso Moalosi.
Namibia’s triumph marks a significant milestone for women’s football in Southern Africa, as the Brave Gladiators etched their name into the region’s football history.
Image by: DJ Brian Rikhotso