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Bruce Chikuni
Sports Reporter
The stage is set for the CAF African Schools Under-15 football championships COSAFA Qualifier, scheduled for Walvis Bay, Namibia next month.
Zimbabwe, bronze medallists in the 2023 edition hosted at Harare’s Gateway High School, are expected to send boys and girls teams to the competition scheduled to kick-off on October 11.
However, ZIFA, notorious for slow decision-making, are still yet to announce the coaches, who will be in charge of the Boys and Girls’ teams.
ZIFA have been late in announcing, the Warriors, Mighty Warriors, and Young Warriors coaches despite having been furnished with the international fixtures programmes by CAF and COSAFA.
In this year’s edition in Namibia, Zimbabwe’s Under-15 boys’ and girls’ teams will join eight other COSAFA countries in what promises to be a thrilling contest to secure a spot at the continental finals.
Last year’s stand-out players for Zimbabwe were Tatenda Maulidi, El Shadai Sadomba, Tadiwa Chakuchichi, and Winnie Mapuwa, will be looking to replicate their impressive performances.
Mapuwa of Herentals School in Mabvuku whose skills are being honed at Legends Football Academy was 11 when she debuted last year.
She is likely going to be featured in this annual tournament for the next four editions, something which will prepare her for the tougher challenges of the senior national team.
According to COSAFA, the competition will feature three pools in a round-robin format, with the top team in each pool advancing to the semi-finals, along with the best-placed runner-up.
The winners of the semi-finals will clash in the final, with the champions earning a slot at the CAF African Schools Football Championship.
COSAFA indicated that this year’s edition has brought some notable changes.
The Boys’ and Girls’ competitions will feature 11 players per side on a full-size pitch, unlike previous years where the girls’ tournament had eight players per side on a half-size pitch.
Matches will consist of 20-minute halves with a 10-minute half-time break.
There will be also unlimited substitutions something which will allow coaches to rotate players, ensuring everyone participates in the group stages.
Beyond the on-field action, the tournament offers valuable development opportunities for young match officials and coaches.
The CAF Young Referees Programme provides training and mentorship to aspiring referees, with experienced instructors guiding them through theoretical and practical sessions.
Zimbabwean respected official, Felix Tangawarima, is COSAFA Referees Manager and FIFA Instructor.
Tangawarima emphasised the importance of starting young referees in such tournaments.
“This is where we identify and nurture talent. We want them to understand the Laws of the Game and develop their skills in a competitive environment.
“We are building capacity for national associations, COSAFA, CAF, and FIFA.
These young referees will officiate at future World Cups and African Cups,” said Tangawarima.
He notes that several top African referees began their journey through this program.
“We look for talent, physical fitness, and a good understanding of the game.
“We also consider their attitude and decision-making skills.” He believes that refining these skills at a young age is crucial for success,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s teams are poised to make a significant impact.
Online Reporter