By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare, Zimbabwe – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially confirmed the group draw for the COSAFA zone qualifiers of the TotalEnergies CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations 2026, with matches set to take place in Harare, Zimbabwe, from 11 to 20 September 2025.
The draw has already sparked excitement and speculation, particularly around Group B, which has been dubbed the “Group of Death”. The group features regional giants Zambia and South Africa, alongside a rising Madagascar side and a competitive Malawi team. With only the group winners and the best runner-up progressing to the semi-finals, the competition promises to be fierce.
Zambia and South Africa, both with strong youth development systems and deep tournament experience, are expected to go head-to-head in what many consider the early final of the qualifiers. Madagascar and Malawi, however, are not to be underestimated and have both caused upsets in previous tournaments.
Zimbabwe, as the host nation, will headline Group A. They’ll face Mozambique, Comoros, and Eswatini in a group that appears more balanced on paper. With the support of the home crowd in Harare, Zimbabwe will be looking to reach the semi-finals and potentially secure a spot in the final tournament.
Angola, who were finalists in the 2024 edition, lead Group C, where they’ll face Botswana, Mauritius, and Lesotho. Angola will be aiming to continue their impressive youth record and book another spot in the continental finals.
The COSAFA qualifiers are the first step toward the TotalEnergies CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations 2026, which also serves as the African qualifier for the expanded FIFA U-17 World Cup. The global tournament now features 48 teams, with 10 slots allocated to African nations providing greater opportunities for emerging talent across the continent.
Official Group Line-Ups – COSAFA U17 Qualifiers 2025
- Group A: Zimbabwe (hosts), Mozambique, Comoros, Eswatini
- Group B: Zambia, South Africa, Madagascar, Malawi
- Group C: Angola, Botswana, Mauritius, Lesotho
The COSAFA qualifiers have historically been a launchpad for future stars, and this year’s edition promises to be no different. As the countdown to September begins, all eyes turn to Harare for what is expected to be a thrilling showcase of Southern Africa’s next generation of football talent.