Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors remain firmly in contention for a place in the semi-finals of the COSAFA Women’s Championship after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against the Zambia women's national football team in a tightly contested Group B encounter.

The stalemate ensured that Zambia stayed top of Group B with four points, while Zimbabwe also moved to four points but trail on goal difference. Zambia’s commanding 3-0 victory over the Botswana women's national football team in their opening match gave them a superior goal tally, while Zimbabwe’s 2-0 win over the Eswatini women's national football team left the two sides separated by a single goal difference.

Despite sitting second in the group, the Mighty Warriors currently lead the standings of the best second-placed teams with four points, putting them in a strong position to secure a semi-final berth depending on results elsewhere.

Speaking after the match, Mighty Warriors head coach Sithethelelwe Kwinji acknowledged the challenge posed by the Copper Queens and praised her team’s tactical discipline.

“We knew we were up against a very tough style, highly athletic and highly physical. So we had to do some tactical flexibility so that we can try and handle the game,” said Kwinji.

The match was characterised by intense physical battles, particularly in midfield, with both teams limiting clear-cut scoring opportunities. Zimbabwe’s defensive organization proved vital in containing Zambia’s attacking threats and securing a valuable point.

Looking ahead to the decisive final Group B clash against Botswana, Kwinji stressed that her side will approach the match with caution and determination.

“For me, really, I would say, obviously, no room for complacency. Take every game as a cup final. Always give it your best. Never underestimate your opponent. Respect the opponent, but only defeat them in the field of play. Don’t defeat them before you play, because football is practical. Everything else is just going to happen in the field of play,” she said.

Kwinji also highlighted the importance of maintaining focus without piling unnecessary pressure on the players.

“I think the most important thing now is to try and get into the knockout stages. So we just need to now see how we approach our last match and at the end of the day without putting much pressure on ourselves in terms of saying how many goals we need to score,” she said.

Beyond the tactical preparations, Kwinji spoke candidly about the need for consistent support and incentives for women’s football to ensure players remain motivated and fully committed.

“We’ve always been trying not to forget something better for the girls. Because, you know, as a coach, when your players are not happy, you’re not going to get the best out of them,” she said.

She added that while support has come in at times, consistency remains key. “Yes, it’s not been consistent, but I wouldn’t say we haven’t gotten anything. We’ve had all wishes really coming in sometimes to boost the morale of the girls. But we want such kind of things to be consistent enough, so that someone really knows that I have a career in football. If you know there’s consistency in terms of remuneration or whatsoever, you put everything, you sacrifice everything to make sure you’re always found in the best shape.”

Kwinji revealed that recent support from government has boosted morale within the camp. “For now, the girls are motivated. Our Honourable Minister really put something on the table, and they’re really motivated. They’re trying to really give their best to show that they appreciate the efforts that have been done.”