Bloemfontein, South Africa – 6 May 2025 | Mozambique were the biggest winners on day one of the HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup 2025 as they defeated hosts South Africa, while Mauritius held Zimbabwe to a 0 0 draw at the Toyota Stadium on Wednesday.
Mozambique put in a superb second half display as they defeated hosts South Africa 1-0 thanks to a winner by Antonio Sumbane. Sumbane turned the ball into the net at the back post after South African failed to clear a delivery across the six-yard box, earning his side a precious three points and top spot after round one in Group A.
Mozambique also had a goal disallowed for offside in the first half, while South Africa missed several chances to earn at least a point. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has been introduced from game one for the first time in this year’s competition, the first time on the African continent for a regional competition.
Mauritius held Zimbabwe to a goalless draw in the second game of the day and might count themselves unfortunate after VAR ruled out a goal for a handball. Mauritius put in an excellent display that will have surprised the six-time champions Zimbabwe, and were good value for their point.
The action continues on Thursday when the opening two matches in Group B are played at the same venue. Malawi take on Lesotho at 15h00 CAT (13h00 GMT), while defending champions Angola face Namibia at 18h00 CAT (16h00 GMT).
That second fixture is a repeat of last year’s final that was one 5-0 by Palancas Negras. HOLLYWOODBETS are back as tournament sponsors for this year, extending their partnership with the COSAFA Cup that has assisted with the growth and development of football in the Southern African region.
HOLLYWOODBETS’ commitment to supporting football at all levels aligns with the spirit of the prestigious tournament, which continues to uncover and elevate the next generation of Southern African footballing super stars.
With its growing stature across the African continent, the HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup stands as an example of the value of strategic partnerships united and powered by a shared vision.
Morgan Shandu, Head of Operations at Hollywoodbets, said: “Over the past few years, we’ve proudly partnered with COSAFA to shine a spotlight on emerging talent across Southern Africa.
Today’s matches were a clear reflection of the region’s passion for the beautiful game and the incredible potential on display. At HOLLYWOODBETS, we’re excited to be part of this journey and hope fans across all participating countries are enjoying every moment of this footballing spectacle.”
All games will be streamed live on FIFA+, and you can follow the tournament at the dedicated HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA CUP 2025 page.
WEDNESDAY’S RESULTS
Group A – Toyota Stadium South Africa 0-1 Mozambique
Mauritius 0-0 Zimbabwe
THURSDAY’S FIXTURES
Group B –
Toyota Stadium Malawi vs Lesotho (KO 15h00; 13h00 GMT)
Angola vs Namibia (KO 18h00; 16h00 GMT)
