Twitter: SAFA
South Africa have claimed the winner’s trophy at the COSAFA Qualifiers for TOTAL U-17 AFCON, Morocco 2021 to lift the regional title in this age-group for the first time since 2002.
South Africa, fondly referred to as the Amajimbos, defeated holders Zambia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the decider at the Gelvandale Stadium in Nelson Mandela Bay on Sunday afternoon.
Both sides had already qualified for the continental finals in Morocco next year, which will have been a major aim before the tournament, but Zambia will have to settle for the silver medal after losing the shoot-out.
South Africa also extend their record number of wins in the competition to three, one more than the Zambians.
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South African Mduduzi Shabalala was named Player of the Tournament, while Zambia's Joseph Banda picked up the Golden Boot for his five goals.
The Golden Glove for best goalkeeper was won by Zambia’s Eric Makungu, who had made a number of excellent saves throughout.
Zambia also claimed the Fair Play award.
Meanwhile, Banda and Shabalala have also been selected to travel to Spain in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the standard of the professional game in that country.
LaLiga is giving the duo the chance early next year and so that they can experience the rich football culture in one of the world’s great soccer nations.
COSAFA recently signed a memorandum of understanding with LaLiga that will see them partner on a number of exciting initiatives over the next few years.
SUNDAY’S RESULTS
Third-place play-off
Angola 2 (Kossi 9’, Hequele 41’) Malawi 1 (Lameck 1’)
Final
Zambia 1 (Banda 2’pen) South Africa 1 (Mahlangu 14’pen)
South Africa win 4-2 on penalties
