MPOPOMA Sports Academy (Mposa), the Zimbabwe representatives, brought pride and glory to the country by claiming a bronze medal at the just-ended Caf U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament 2025 in Zimbabwe.
The Bulawayo-based side put up a gallant fight against top-notch teams from the region.
The tournament, held at Ngoni Stadium in Norton, saw Mposa face stiff competition from teams like Mamelodi Sundowns, Luwinga Academy, and Aguila Stars Women.
Despite losing 6-0 to eventual champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the semifinals, the Zimbabweans bounced back with a resounding 4-1 win against Aguila Stars Women in the third-place playoff to secure the bronze medal.
Mpopoma's journey to the podium was nothing short of spectacular.
They opened their account with a thunderous 12-0 thrashing of Namibian side Otjiwarongo Sports Academy, followed by a 2-1 win against Luwinga Academy from Malawi.
Their impressive performance on the pitch was matched by their energetic presence off the field, as they belted out tunes and mingled with teams from the region, earning admiration from all.
Their director, James Rugwevera (Jnr), could not hide his pride and joy, attributing the team's success to hard work and determination.
- Mposa bags bronze at Caf U17 girls tourney
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"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 told Standard Sport.
He praised the team's resilience, despite being outplayed by neighbours, Mamelodi Sundowns.
"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," he said.
Looking ahead, Mpopoma Sports Academy is set to take their game to the next level.
"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," Rugwevera said.
The tournament also saw Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi, his deputy Loveness Wadzanai Mukura and other dignitaries gracing the event, with veteran striker Rutendo Makore carrying the coveted trophy to the podium.
Outgoing Zifa CEO Yvonne Manwa, Zimbabwe Women Premier Soccer League chairperson Chido Chizondo, her deputy Lewis Muzhara and board member development James Shamuyarira Mupfudza also watched the final.
