The road to continental glory begins in South Africa.
The COSAFA Qualifier for the CAF African Schools Football Championship will be staged in Stellenbosch, South Africa, from December 5–7, bringing together the region’s top school football talent.
A record 11 boys' and girls' teams will compete for a spot at the CAF finals, promising one of the most competitive editions yet.
Participating nations include Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe — each represented by the best young players who advanced through their national qualifiers.
The event will showcase the brightest youth prospects in the region, continuing the high level of competition seen throughout the tournament’s growing recent history.
South Africa enters as one of the strongest contenders, having won the Girls’ continental title in Zanzibar in 2024, and previously finishing runners-up in the Boys’ competition in 2023 through Clapham High School.
The CAF African Schools Football Championship is spearheaded by CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, with the Motsepe Foundation committing USD 10 million to developing school football across the continent.
At the continental finals, current champions Tanzania (Boys) and Ghana (Girls) claimed top honors, with the champions receiving USD 300,000, runners-up USD 200,000, and third-place teams USD 150,000.
Funds are invested back into school infrastructure and sports development programs.
At the COSAFA regional level, prize money will also be awarded, with USD 100,000 for the winners, USD 75,000 for runners-up, and USD 50,000 for third place.
Beyond the action on the pitch, the tournament includes
safeguarding workshops, a Young Reporters Programme, and referee and coaching development sessions, supporting holistic youth and sport development.
“Schools football is at the heart of the long-term growth and development of African football,” said Dr Motsepe.
“Investing in school football and infrastructure at school, amateur and professional levels is essential for Africa to become one of the best in world football.”
For further details, please visit COSAFA.com.
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