COSAFA: Zambia picked valuable lessons despite losing trophy – Haalubono

Zambia women national team settled for bronze at the 2025 COSAFA Women’s Championship after beating Zimbabwe 3-1 in the third-place playoff, with Agness Phiri leading the charge.

Phiri struck twice in the second and 26th minutes to put Zambia in control while Mercy Chipasula added the third just before the break; finishing off a dominant first-half display.

Safe Hands & Fair Play: Namibia’s Melissa Matheus takes the Golden Glove while Zambia secures the Fair Play award. Zenatha Coleman names player of the tournament-Icons of the game! 🇳🇦🇿🇲#CWC2025 #Hollywoodbets #HollywoodbetsCWC2025 #FINALS pic.twitter.com/qcMZ7ZZ6HF

— COSAFA (@COSAFAMEDIA) March 1, 2026

Rutendo Makore pulled one back for the Mighty Warriors after capitalising on a defensive lapse, but it proved to be a consolation.

Zambia still devasted with Namibia defeat

The Copper Queens assistant coach Charles Haalubono said the podium finish has lifted the mood in camp after the disappointment of missing out on the title defence.

“Third position not so bad we are coming from a defeat from Namibia. We were devastated by that defeat. We thank God for the victory today; at least the morale now will be back in our camp,” said Haalubono.

He admitted the team fell short of defending the title they won in 2024 but said that valuable lessons were picked up ahead of the WAFCON preparations.

Player of the Match Phiri was delighted to claim the accolade for the first time at COSAFA. Phiri credited her teammates for the support and chemistry that helped her deliver.

She admitted it was a tough contest but welcomed the third-place finish as a positive end to the campaign.