Ghana edge Zambia to reach CAF Schools final as Black Damsels hold firm in Harare

...Ghana faces Burkina Faso in the final

By Trust Ittai and Mishael Emmanuel

Defending champions Ghana’s Black Damsels booked their place in the final of the CAF African Schools Championship with a gritty 1–0 victory over Zambia in a tense Under-15 girls’ semi-final clash in Harare.

The West Africans struck early and held firm, crushing Zambia’s hopes of a maiden continental title despite a spirited response from the Southern Africans.

Ghana seized the initiative in just the seventh minute through Blessings Tettey, who capitalised on a costly defensive lapse.

Zambian goalkeeper Winfridah Mutale misjudged what looked like a routine cross, allowing the ball to sail awkwardly into the net for the decisive goal.

Stunned by the early setback, Zambia rallied impressively, taking control of large spells of the game.

Phidah Muzuwa came agonisingly close to restoring parity, only to see her powerful effort crash against the crossbar.

On the flanks, Peggy Banda electrified the contest with her pace and dribbling, repeatedly troubling Ghana’s defence.

However, the Black Damsels’ backline remained disciplined and resilient under sustained pressure.

At full time, heartbreak was evident in the Zambian camp, with players overcome by emotion after narrowly missing out on a historic final berth.

Head coach Chisala Chibesa and Mutale were among those left visibly distraught.

Despite the disappointment, Chibesa struck a tone of pride and optimism.

“The girls did their best. Playing against a West African side like Ghana is never easy,” she said.

“Overall, the team has performed exceptionally well. This is our first time at this championship, and we will regroup and prepare for the future.”

Team captain Rebecca Mbutawo echoed her coach’s sentiments, highlighting the value of the experience.

“This platform has taught me a lot and given us exposure, especially competing against other national teams,” she noted.

Zambia will now shift focus to the third-place playoff against Morocco, where they will aim to secure a bronze medal, while Ghana faces Burkina Faso in the final in what promises to be a compelling rematch after their earlier group-stage defeat to the same opponents.

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