Zambia’s Young Chipolopolo wrapped up their 2026 COSAFA U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Botswana on Wednesday to finish top of Group C with a perfect nine points.

Coach Perry Mutapa made several changes to the starting line-up, with the majority of the players who featured in Zambia’s opening two matches starting on the bench.

The changes did not affect Zambia’s momentum, as Daniel Silubonde opened the scoring in the ninth minute from the penalty spot before Kent Malundu equalised for Botswana shortly after the restart.

Silubonde restored Zambia’s lead in the 63rd minute after Zambia was awarded a second penalty spot, converting the rebound from a second penalty after his initial effort had been saved.

John Foloko then completed the scoring in stoppage time to seal another victory for Mutapa’s side.

The result maintained Zambia’s perfect record in the group and set up a crucial semi-final clash against South Africa on Friday.

The Young Chipolopolo began their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Malawi before defeating Comoros by the same scoreline in their second group match.

With a place at the U-20 AFCON at stake, Zambia will now turn their attention to a South African side that has also enjoyed an unbeaten run in the tournament.

Amajita defeated Lesotho 3-0, Angola 2-0 and Eswatini 2-0, scoring seven goals without conceding.

Meanwhile, in the other semi-final, Namibia will face Angola.

The two finalists will secure qualification for the U-20 AFCON.