The 2025 COSAFA Cup draws have been conducted, with this year’s Southern African showpiece gaining international flair through the inclusion of World Cup semi-finalists Morocco.
The tournament is set to run from June 4–15 in Mangaung.
With the group stage draw now finalized, Zambia finds itself in Group D alongside Comoros and Botswana.
Zambia enters the 2025 tournament as one of the most decorated sides in COSAFA history, with seven titles to their name.
The Chipolopolo’s most recent triumph came in 2023, although their 2024 campaign fell short under the guidance of Chisi Mbewe.
In Group D, they will face Botswana—a team they have historically dominated—and Comoros, who are steadily rising in African football, particularly after strong performances in recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Group C is headlined by Morocco, a team from outside the traditional COSAFA zone. The Atlas Lions, who were seeded for the draw, will present a stern test for Madagascar and Eswatini.
Morocco is expected to use the tournament as preparation for the African Nations Championship or may field a U-23 squad.
Angola, the 2024 COSAFA Cup champions, lead Group B and enter the tournament as the team to beat. The Palancas Negras will begin their title defence against Namibia, Malawi, and Lesotho.
Hosts South Africa top Group A, where they will face Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Mauritius.
The top teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals of the senior championship. The winner of Group A will face the winner of Group D, while the top side in Group B will take on the Group C winner.
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