Zimbabwe to Host CAF U-17 Girls Tournament in December

Zimbabwe is gearing up to host the second edition of the CAF Under 17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament (GIFT) this December.

The competition, scheduled from 8–18 December in Harare, will feature eight of Southern Africa’s top youth teams. COSAFA confirmed the event, saying it will bring together leading clubs and academies from across the region for an exciting showcase of young female talent.

The draw for the tournament’s pool stage is set for Friday at 10:00 CAT at COSAFA House in Johannesburg.

This year’s line-up includes teams from six COSAFA member nations. Zimbabwe will be represented by Mpopoma Sports Academy (MPOSA), whose senior squad competes in the Zimbabwe Women’s Premier Soccer League. South Africa will field two sides: powerhouses Mamelodi Sundowns and Gauteng-based Refilwe FC.

Namibia will also contribute two teams, Otjiwarongo Sports Academy and Okakarara Golden Ladies FC. Zambia’s Aguilla Girls FC, Malawi’s Luwinga Academy, and Lesotho’s Lisosheshoe complete the eight-team roster.

The tournament promises a platform for young female players to gain international experience and showcase their skills ahead of future continental competitions.