The countdown is over and the spotlight now falls on Zimbabwe’s Young Warriors, who will today step onto the pitch at Heart Stadium in Harare with the weight of a nation’s hopes on their shoulders.
The team opens its campaign against Mozambique in the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations 2026 COSAFA Qualifiers, which run until 20 September.
For a new generation of players, the tournament represents more than just competition.
It is a chance to carve their names into history and end years of underachievement at youth level.
Zimbabwe last lifted the regional crown in 2007, defeating South Africa in a dramatic penalty shoot-out final.
Since then, success has proved elusive, with the Young Warriors’ most recent notable run ending in the semi-finals in 2024, where they fell short against Angola.
Authorities have confirmed that both the Heart Stadium in Harare and Ngoni Stadium in Norton are fully prepared to host the region’s top 12 teams.
With a mixture of traditional giants and emerging footballing nations in the mix, the qualifiers promise a carnival of youth football, showcasing talent and strengthening pathways for development.
For many Zimbabwean fans, the Young Warriors offer a refreshing alternative to the misfiring senior national team, the Warriors, who recently slumped to back-to-back defeats in their World Cup qualifying campaign.
“We are tired of disappointment from the Warriors. These boys are hungry and fearless, and I am confident they will not be as miserable as the senior team,” said Harare-based supporter Tawanda Moyo.
Another fan, Caroline Dube from Norton, echoed the sentiment.
“The Young Warriors play with pride and passion. They may be inexperienced, but that could be their strength. We believe they can go further than the seniors and bring joy back to our football,” she said
The Young Warriors’ preparations for the tournament have been meticulous, with coaches emphasising discipline, tactical awareness, and team spirit.
Zimbabwe Football Association officials have described the tournament as an opportunity to “reset the narrative” around the national game, beginning with the energy and resilience of its youngest stars.
As Comoros and Eswatini get Group A action underway in Norton, all eyes will be on Harare where the Young Warriors meet Mozambique in what could set the tone for their campaign.
For Zimbabwe, the future begins today, and hopes are high that the next chapter in the country’s football history will be written by its youngest heroes.
