GU ladies brace for tough COSAFA qualifier

All eyes turn to Gaborone United Ladies FC as the host side lands in a gruelling Group A for the upcoming CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA Qualifier. Set to face off against regional heavyweights from Zambia, Zimbabwe and Lesotho, GU champions face a high-stakes campaign to defend home territory and secure continental glory when the action kicks off on August 20. On paper, the draw has set up a thrilling 10-day clash between Southern Africa’s elite.

The hosts will share Group A alongside Zambia’s ZESCO Ndola Girls, Zimbabwe’s Herentals Queens and the Lesotho Defence Force, with Gaborone United contesting the tournament’s opening match against Lesotho. Meanwhile, South Africa’s two-time continental powerhouses Mamelodi Sundowns anchor Group B alongside Costa do Sol of Mozambique, Nsingizini Hotspurs FC of eSwatini and Malawi’s Silver Strikers for the regional championship running from August 20 to 29. Newly elected COSAFA president, Tariq Babitseng articulated a strategic vision for regional tournaments that extends far beyond the final whistle, positioning sport hosting as an engine for cross-sector development.

The logic behind the approach is that major regional tournaments stimulate local commercial ecosystems because when teams travel, hotels are occupied, restaurants see a surge in customers and local transport operators, vendors and small business owners directly profit. Babitseng highlighted the importance of a lasting tournament legacy, adding that every competition organised should strengthen football infrastructure and create tangible economic value for the host nation. He emphasised that the impact should not be limited to established hubs, thus advocated for equitable distribution across the region.

[paywall]

“For that reason, it is my desire that, over time, COSAFA competitions are hosted across all our member associations. Every country in our region deserves the opportunity to welcome Southern Africa, showcase its football and benefit from the economic activity that accompanies these events,” he said. Furthermore, he noted that international exposure built local confidence, inspired young talent, and reinforced a vibrant football culture.

[/paywall]