Angola has successfully defended its title at the Cosafa Women’s Championship, claiming the regional crown for the second consecutive year after a commanding performance in the final in Pretoria.
The tournament showcased Southern Africa’s top women’s national teams, with Angola’s squad demonstrating consistency, skill, and tactical acumen throughout the group stages and knockout rounds. In the decisive match, Angola secured a narrow but decisive victory—backed by disciplined defending, swift counterattacks, and a decisive moment that sealed their win.
Coach Isabel Santos praised her team’s unity and determination, describing their performance as “a tribute to hard work, resilience, and the growing spirit of women’s football in Angola.” She lauded the players for their blend of youth and experience, which she said was instrumental in navigating tight games and managing pressure.
Midfielder Ana “Nina” Oliveira named Player of the Tournament played a pivotal role, orchestrating play from the center of the park, tracking back defensively, and netting crucial goals that invigorated teammates and destabilized opponents.
Angola’s captain, defender Maria Silva, credited the triumph to comprehensive preparation. “We believed in ourselves from day one,” Silva noted. “After winning last year, we knew we had to raise our level. Every player showed passion and commitment.”
The victory not only reaffirms Angola’s position as one of Southern Africa’s leading women’s football nations, but also fuels optimism ahead of upcoming continental competitions, including the African Women’s Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Cosafa officials congratulated Angola for their dominant run, noting that the championship has helped elevate the status of women’s football in the region drawing in larger crowds, motivating grassroots participation, and inspiring young athletes across Southern Africa.
As celebratory scenes broke out among coaches, players, and fans in Pretoria, Angola’s delegation expressed gratitude to supporters, government agencies, and the national football federation for their unwavering backing.
The back-to-back Cosafa titles mark a milestone for Angolan women’s football, signaling a rising force on the continental stage and a new era of sporting achievement and aspiration.
