2024 COSAFA Cup: Tough Groups Unveiled as South Africa and Botswana Renew Rivalry
2024 COSAFA Cup: Tough Groups Unveiled as South Africa and Botswana Renew Rivalry
The draw for the 2024 COSAFA Cup has been announced, setting the stage for an exciting tournament. The competition, scheduled to run from June 26 to July 7, promises thrilling encounters and memorable moments for football fans in Southern Africa.
Group A:
- South Africa
- Botswana
- Mozambique
- Eswatini
South Africa and Botswana, longstanding rivals, are set to face off for the ninth consecutive time in the competition. Their matchup is highly anticipated, with both teams eager to assert dominance. Mozambique and Eswatini complete the group, adding to the competitive mix.
Group B:
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Comoros
- TBA
Record seven-time champions Zambia aim to make history by winning their third consecutive title. Grouped with Zimbabwe, Comoros, and a yet-to-be-confirmed team, Zambia faces a challenging path but remains a formidable contender.
Group C:
- Lesotho
- Angola
- Namibia
- Seychelles
Group C is poised for excitement, featuring Lesotho, Angola, Namibia, and the Seychelles. Each team will be vying for dominance, making for closely contested matches.
Tournament Format: Each team will play a minimum of three games, with the format allowing for extra rest days between matches to prioritize player welfare. This structure ensures that players are at their best throughout the tournament.
Historical Context: In the competition’s 22-year history, only five nations have lifted the coveted trophy: Zambia (seven titles), Zimbabwe (six), South Africa (five), Angola (three), and Namibia (one). The 2024 COSAFA Cup offers an opportunity for any of the participating teams to add their name to this prestigious list.
With the stage set and the groups unveiled, the 2024 COSAFA Cup is poised to deliver unforgettable moments in Southern African football history. Fans are eagerly awaiting the kickoff, ready to witness their favorite teams battle for regional supremacy.