Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) yesterday gave a rousing and symbolic send-off to the national Under-17 and Under-20 women’s teams, as they prepare to hoist the flag high in upcoming international competitions.
With hope, pride, and a touch of ceremony, the girls were celebrated at a colourful event in Harare attended by Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi, vice-president Loveness Mukura, senior officials, and the association’s marketing team.
The Under-17 team jets off to Windhoek, Namibia, today for the 2025 Cosafa Championships, the first of five women’s tournaments slated on the Cosafa calendar this year.
The Under-20s also depart today for a double-header against Rwanda in the Fifa U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
“This is our time to rise again. Everyone is marvelling that we’ve made this possible, because many thought Zimbabwean football was dead. We are here to say: young ladies, rise up, take your stand and represent the nation. People will be surprised when they see you doing wonders in Rwanda and Namibia,” Magwizi declared in an emotional address.
The two campaigns mark a significant chapter in Zimbabwe’s mission to reclaim its place as a women’s football powerhouse in the region. Cosafa’s growth in women’s football over the past decade has been impressive, with opportunities extending far beyond the pitch.
Magwizi praised the players’ determination and assured them of the nation’s full support.
“We are not just bidding you farewell, we are standing together as one football family to honour our heroines. You will be representing 17 million Zimbabweans. That’s no small task, and you go with our pride and confidence.”
He also thanked the coaching teams for their critical role in shaping the next generation of leaders.
“Your role is of paramount importance. You are instilling discipline, courage, and values that go beyond the game. Zifa takes seriously the responsibility to support our teams not just in words but with tangible action,” he said.
Both teams have undergone residential camps, with Zifa providing technical resources, logistics, and support to ensure smooth preparations. The Under-20s are coached by Garthly Chipuka, who returns to national duty after a three-year absence, while the Under-17s are under the stewardship of Lindiwe Ndlovu.
Despite being just three months into office, the current Zifa executive has pledged to ensure equal treatment for the men’s and women’s teams.
“You enter these competitions with pride in your hearts and the full backing of a nation that believes in you and an association that wants the best for you,” Magwizi said.
Head of delegation Colonel Ntokoziso Moyo expressed satisfaction with the teams’ readiness and applauded Zifa for ensuring a seamless build-up.
“Preparations on and off the field were flawless. We are ready to travel. This competition is not just about results, it’s about laying the foundation as we rebuild our game from the ground up,” said Moyo.
Zimbabwe’s most iconic moment in women’s football came in 2016, when the Mighty Warriors qualified for the Olympic Games in Brazil. With the right support and a fresh wave of young talent, the dream is to surpass that milestone.
