Upsets continue at the COSAFA Cup as Comoros defeat record champions Zambia

Photo: COSAFA Media

Surprise results have been a theme early in the 2025 COSAFA Cup and Comoros pulled off the latest upset on Friday with a 1-0 result over the most successful nation in the history of the competition, Zambia.

Ibrahim Madi's first half header from a free kick service by Ahmed Haslane was the difference in the only match played on Friday from the competition. The forward based at Istres in France's fourth tier rose up to nod in, leaving the Coelacanths as the leaders of Group D which also includes Botswana.

It was another hard fought, even match in a competition where no team has established themselves as a favorite to capture the trophy yet. Zambia, featuring a team entirely based in the nation's domestic top flight, struggled to make inroads against Comoros' team composed of a mix of players based domestically and abroad.

Chipolopolo made a furious push during an extended stoppage time period in the second half but the Comorian defense managed to hold out for all three points. After a couple of long and tense VAR reviews including a potential handball in the Comorian penalty area, the full time whistle arrived much to the relief of the Coelacanths.

With a three-team group, Zambia's Chipolopolo now must win in their final Group D game against Botswana next Wednesday to avoid a second straight group stage elimination at the COSAFA Cup. The Zebras of Botswana begin their competition on Monday when they clash with Comoros, who will snatch a place in the semifinals as well as win Group D with a victory.