It took the Brave Gladiators of Namibia two decades to return to the final of the Cosafa Women’s Championship, and they made it count by lifting the 2026 title after defeating hosts South Africa 2-1 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane yesterday afternoon.
South Africa drew first blood when Nthabiseng Majiya found the back of the net in the 37th minute, giving the home side a 1-0 lead going into the break.
However, Namibia came back strongly in the second half. Muhonatjo Hanavi levelled matters in the 54th minute, bringing the match back on even terms.
With the score tied 1-1 at full-time, the final went into extra time where Memory Ngonda delivered the decisive moment, slotting home Namibia’s winning goal.
The triumph also served as sweet revenge for Namibia, who lost 3-1 to South Africa in the 2006 final, the last time they reached the championship match.
Veteran striker Zenatha Coleman was named Player of the Match after a commanding performance. Reflecting on the game, she admitted the team had a slow start but showed character in the second half.
“We were not ready in the first half, but in the second half we came back more determined. We decided to keep the ball more and control the game. I am very proud of the players. This means a lot to me, and now I can say goodbye to the Cosafa competition after 31 years,” she said.
Head coach Lucky Kakuva also expressed his pride following the historic achievement.
“We struggled in some areas, but we changed our tactics and the players responded well. Massive congratulations to Namibia. This is history in the making, and I am proud to be Namibian,” he said.
Earlier in the day, Zambia secured the bronze medal after defeating Zimbabwe 3-1. Zambia’s Agnes Phiri was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance.