HARARE – Zimbabwe’s campaign in the Group A stage of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations | COSAFA Qualifiers at Ngoni Mwos Stadium in Harare, Zimbabwe on Thursday got off to a rocky start as they suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat to Mozambique. Despite a spirited performance and several promising chances, the Warriors were unable to find the back of the net.

The match began with Zimbabwe showing early intent. In the 4th minute, Tadiwa Chakuchichi came close to opening the scoring, but his shot narrowly missed the target. Just minutes later, a defensive lapse in Zimbabwe’s box allowed Mozambique to capitalize and take the lead in the 8th minute.

Chakuchichi remained a constant threat, earning a free kick in the 11th minute after being brought down during an attacking run. Zimbabwe continued to press, with Jameson Nduna attempting a long-range effort in the 24th minute and Chakuchichi again coming close in the 34th. However, the finishing touch eluded them.

A foul on Darrel Zulu in the 36th minute gave Zimbabwe another chance from a set piece, but Nduna’s effort failed to trouble the keeper. The first half ended with Zimbabwe trailing 0-1, despite dominating possession and creating more chances.

Coach adjustments came swiftly in the second half, with Fortune Ncube replacing James Mautsa at the restart. Further substitutions followed, including Irvine Mtungwazi for Nduna and a double switch in the 75th minute bringing on Tapiwa Gutu and Dywane Musona.

As the clock ticked down, Zimbabwe intensified their efforts. Darrel Zulu fired a powerful shot in the 88th minute that skimmed just wide, epitomizing the team’s frustration in front of goal. Mozambique, meanwhile, slowed the tempo, with four of their players down in the 86th minute, disrupting Zimbabwe’s rhythm.

Seven minutes of added time offered a glimmer of hope, but the final whistle confirmed Zimbabwe’s defeat. Despite their dominance in midfield and attacking intent, the Young Warriors were unable to overturn the early setback.

Zimbabwe now turn their attention to their next Group A fixture against Eswatini, scheduled for Saturday at Ngoni MWOS Stadium with kickoff at 15:00hrs. With lessons learned and renewed determination, the team will be eager to bounce back and keep their tournament hopes alive.