Heartbreak for Banyana Banyana as Zambia Clinch COSAFA Women's Championship in Penalty Shootout

South Africa’s Banyana Banyana fell just short of glory in the 2024 COSAFA Women’s Championship final, losing to Zambia's Copper Queens in a dramatic penalty shootout. After a goalless draw in regular time, Zambia emerged victorious with a 4-3 win on penalties, securing the title and leaving the South African team in disappointment.

Banyana Banyana’s journey to the final saw them overcome Mozambique in a thrilling semifinal clash. That game ended 1-1 in regular time, leading to a penalty shootout where South Africa held their nerve to triumph 4-1, advancing to the final with high hopes. However, they could not replicate the same success in the final against a resilient Zambian side, who proved too tough to break down in open play.

Zambia’s victory adds to their recent accomplishments in African women’s football, including a strong showing in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. This latest achievement further solidifies their status as a rising force in the region, while South Africa will look to regroup and build on their impressive performances in the tournament.