COSAFA Women’s Championship: Banyana Banyana open with victory over Malawi

South Africa’s Banyana Banyana marched to a winning start at the 2025 COSAFA Women’s Championship on Wednesday with a 2-0 victory over Malawi to wrap up the opening day of action.

Here’s another look at the goal scored by Sibulele Holweni to give Sasol Banyana Banyana a well-deserved lead. It’s 1-0 South Africa against Malawi in Polokwane @SasolinSport #LiveTheImpossible pic.twitter.com/MEl2iESkgG

— Sasol Banyana Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) February 18, 2026

After being held to a scoreless first half, the hosts made their breakthough in the 62nd minute at the Seshego Stadium in Limpopo province. Sibulele Holweni finished from close range after a well-executed set piece that began with Sinegugu Zondi’s floated service into the penalty area.

South Africa are seeking their first regional title since the 2020 edition, with Zambia claiming two titles while Malawi and guest nation Tanzania each won the tournament once in the interim.

Bonolo Mokoma finished off the result in second half stoppage time by finishing from a cross to secure three points.

Let’s have another look at Sasol Banyana Banyana’s 2nd goal against Malawi in Polokwane. It’s 2-0 to South Africa @SasolinSport #LiveTheImpossible pic.twitter.com/3rYv1fO4aA

— Sasol Banyana Banyana (@Banyana_Banyana) February 18, 2026

Earlier on Wednesday, Angola defeated Lesotho 3-1 in the tournament’s opening match. The 2025 edition was previously supposed to take place towards the end of last year but was postponed due to South Africa’s unwillingness to host.

However, after the postponement of the tournament, hosting duties were restored to the regional power with an opportunity to utilize the competition as a warmup for the upcoming 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco that begins in March.