MPOPOMA Sports Academy Secures Coveted Bronze at CAF U17 Girls Tournament
MPOPOMA Sports Academy (Mposa), representing Zimbabwe, has achieved a significant milestone, bringing national pride by clinching a bronze medal at the recently concluded CAF U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament 2025, hosted in Zimbabwe. The Bulawayo-based contingent showcased remarkable resilience and skill throughout the competition, battling against formidable regional opponents.
The tournament, held at the Ngoni Stadium in Norton, presented Mposa with a challenging lineup of competitors, including renowned clubs such as Mamelodi Sundowns, Luwinga Academy, and Aguila Stars Women. Despite a tough semi-final encounter where they faced eventual champions Mamelodi Sundowns, resulting in a 6-0 defeat, the Zimbabwean team demonstrated exceptional character. They rallied back in the third-place playoff, delivering a commanding 4-1 victory against Aguila Stars Women to secure their well-deserved bronze medal.
Mposa’s Impressive Tournament Run
Mposa’s journey to the podium was a testament to their dedication and talent. Their campaign began with an emphatic statement, a dominant 12-0 thrashing of the Namibian side, Otjiwarongo Sports Academy. This powerful start set the tone for their subsequent performances.
- Opening Match Dominance: Mposa kicked off their tournament with a resounding 12-0 victory against Otjiwarongo Sports Academy from Namibia.
- Crucial Second Victory: They followed this up with a hard-fought 2-1 win against Luwinga Academy, hailing from Malawi, showcasing their ability to secure vital points against strong opposition.
- Resilience in Defeat: Despite the significant margin of defeat against Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals, the team’s spirit remained unbroken.
- Bronze Medal Triumph: The decisive 4-1 win over Aguila Stars Women in the playoff cemented their third-place finish.
Beyond their on-field prowess, Mposa also captured the hearts of many with their vibrant spirit off the pitch. The team was noted for their energetic presence, often heard singing and interacting positively with teams from across the region, fostering a sense of camaraderie and earning widespread admiration.
A Director’s Pride and Future Aspirations
James Rugwevera (Jnr), the director of Mpopoma Sports Academy, expressed immense pride and joy in the team’s achievement. He attributed their success to the girls’ unwavering hard work and determination.
“The girls did very, very well. We’re very proud of them. They put in all the work, and it’s a lovely experience for us,” Rugwevera stated, highlighting the significance of the tournament for the young athletes.
He further commended the team’s resilience, particularly in the face of a strong opponent like Mamelodi Sundowns. Rugwevera emphasized the developmental aspect of the tournament, stating, “We were developing talent, so it’s very good for them. The exposure to play with people from other clubs and other countries is a very lovely experience for us.”
Looking towards the future, Mpopoma Sports Academy is committed to continuous improvement and elevating their performance. Rugwevera articulated their forward-thinking approach:
“We focus on doing better and better. We try to improve each time, and each time, for us to get here is because of hard work and determination. We promise better for next time.”
This sentiment underscores the academy’s dedication to nurturing talent and striving for greater success in upcoming competitions.
Esteemed Guests and Dignitaries Witness the Tournament
The CAF U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament 2025 attracted significant attention from footballing authorities and dignitaries. The event was graced by the presence of Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi, his deputy Loveness Wadzanai Mukura, and other esteemed guests. The presentation of the coveted trophy to the champions was a highlight, with veteran striker Rutendo Makore carrying it to the podium, adding a touch of legendary status to the occasion.
Among the prominent figures who witnessed the final match and celebrated the young talents were:
- Outgoing Zifa CEO Yvonne Manwa
- Zimbabwe Women Premier Soccer League chairperson Chido Chizondo
- Her deputy, Lewis Muzhara
- Board member development, James Shamuyarira Mupfudza
Their attendance underscored the importance of the tournament in fostering youth development and supporting women’s football within the region. The successful conclusion of the CAF U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament 2025 not only celebrated the athletic achievements of the participating teams but also highlighted the growing talent pool and the bright future of women’s football in Africa.
