MBABANE – Anticipation sparkles as Sitsebe SaMhlekazi begin their COSAFA journey, with Zimbabwe coach Sithethelelwe ‘Kwinji 15’ Sibanda already branding the opener a delicate test.
Sibanda, reacting to the tournament draw on the Herald Online official website, admitted that the timing of the competition adds a layer of complexity despite her side’s experience on the regional stage.
This is primarily because Zimbabwean football is currently in its off-season.
“The opening match will be tricky because of the way our season is designed. We are just coming from the holidays and the players are still off-season,” Sibanda said.
Sitsebe will begin their campaign against Zimbabwe on Thursday, February 19, 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 12pm at the Seshego Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa.
The tournament, which runs from February 18 to March 1, 2026, will be staged across three venues: Old Peter Mokaba, Peter Mokaba, and Seshego stadiums. After a delayed start due to the search for a host nation, the 2025 edition sees Sitsebe placed in a demanding ‘Group of Death’ alongside defending champions Zambia, former winners Zimbabwe, and an improving Botswana outfit.
Zimbabwe lifted the COSAFA Cup in 2011 after defeating serial champions South Africa, while Zambia arrive as holders with two titles. However, Sitsebe continue to show steady growth and resilience, having impressed at the 2024 tournament before exiting against Banyana Banyana.
“It’s good to know the identity of your opponents so that you can train knowing what they will bring,” Sibanda added. The Zimbabwe coach confirmed her side has been in camp in Harare since Monday, noting a visible improvement in fitness levels despite limited competitive action.
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