Madi Magic Seals Famous Win as Comoros Stun Zambia in COSAFA Cup Opener

Comoros kicked off their 2025 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup campaign in style with a hard-fought 1–0 win over regional giants Zambia at the Toyota Stadium in Mangaung on Friday — their second straight tournament victory over Chipolopolo.

Ibrahim Madi’s powerful header in the 31st minute was enough to separate the sides, as the islanders took a massive step towards a second consecutive semifinal appearance. The goal came from a perfectly delivered free-kick by Ahmed Haslane, floated in from the left byline. Madi timed his run to perfection and made no mistake, nodding past the stranded Zambian goalkeeper.

The result leaves Comoros top of the Group D mini-pool — which also includes Botswana — and puts Zambia, the record seven-time champions, on the brink of a shock early exit for the second year in a row.

“We worked hard for this result,” said Comoros coach Younes Zerdouk after the match. “The boys showed character, composure, and belief. It’s a big win, but we know the job is not done yet.”

Zambia in Free Fall

It’s unfamiliar territory for Zambia, once the region’s dominant force, who are now on a four-match losing streak in the competition — their worst-ever run. They exited the 2024 edition without a single point and face the prospect of another group-stage disappointment unless they can turn things around quickly.

Despite boasting more possession and creating a few half-chances late on, Zambia rarely troubled the Comoros defence, who remained composed and disciplined throughout.

“We didn’t show enough urgency,” admitted Zambian coach Wedson Nyirenda. “We know what’s at stake, and we have to bounce back fast.”

Momentum with the Islanders

Comoros, who reached the semifinals last year in what was their best COSAFA showing yet, have been on a steady rise in southern African football. Once regarded as minnows, they are now proving they can mix it with the best — and beat them.

Their win over Zambia underlines a team playing with confidence and cohesion. With only one more group game left — against Botswana — a draw might be enough to see them through, depending on other results.

COSAFA Cup Heats Up with Super Saturday Showdowns

The action continues at Toyota Stadium on Saturday with a bumper triple-header on the cards.

12h00 CAT | Mozambique vs Mauritius

Mozambique will be out to build on their impressive 1–0 win over hosts South Africa in their Group A opener. They’ll take on a lively Mauritius side that held Zimbabwe to a goalless draw. In two previous COSAFA clashes between the teams, Mozambique have a win and a draw.

15h00 CAT | South Africa vs Zimbabwe

Desperate for a response, South Africa will look to break their COSAFA Cup hoodoo against Zimbabwe. Bafana Bafana are yet to beat the Warriors in the tournament, with two losses and a draw in past meetings. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will be keen to find the net after drawing a blank in their opener.

18h00 CAT | Tanzania vs Madagascar

The final game of the day sees Group C underway as Tanzania faces Madagascar. The two nations last met in this competition a decade ago, with Madagascar winning 2–0 in 2015. Both sides will be eager to start strong in what is shaping up to be a tight group.

All matches will be streamed live on FIFA+, and fans can stay updated via the official HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup 2025 page.

Friday’s Result

Group D – Toyota Stadium

Zambia 0–1 Comoros (Madi 31’)

Saturday’s Fixtures – Toyota Stadium