The semi-final lineup for the 2025 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup has been finalized following a dramatic conclusion to Group C and D.
Defending champions Angola are set to clash with Madagascar, while tournament hosts South Africa will go head-to-head with Comoros.
Semi-Final Schedule Confirmed for Friday
Both highly anticipated semi-final encounters will take place on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Angola vs. Madagascar will kick off at 15:00 SAST
South Africa vs. Comoros will follow at 18:00 SAST
Group D Thriller: Zambia’s Late Penalty Dims Botswana’s Hopes, Sends Comoros Through
Group D delivered an edge-of-the-seat finale that ultimately saw Comoros secure their semi-final berth at the expense of Botswana.
The Zebras were mere minutes away from topping the group, but a late penalty converted by Joseph Phiri for Zambia resulted in a thrilling 3-3 draw for Chipolopolo, denying Botswana a spot in the last four.
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Botswana had initially surged into a commanding 2-0 lead with goals from Thatayaone Kgamanyane and a Serati Semadi penalty. However, Zambia staged a remarkable comeback, leveling the score at 2-2 through a Charles Zulu penalty and Tinklar Sakala’s early second-half strike.
The match became an open affair, and Botswana appeared to have sealed their semi-final fate when Thabo Maponda found the back of the net on the hour-mark. Yet, in a cruel twist of fate for Botswana, they conceded a penalty in injury-time, which Phiri coolly dispatched, crushing their dreams of progression.
Group C Decider: Tanzania’s Victory Over Eswatini Paves Way for Madagascar
In Group C, Eswatini missed out on securing top spot after suffering a 2-1 defeat to guest nation Tanzania. This result directly benefited Madagascar, who advanced to the semi-finals.
Eswatini had taken the lead just before the half-hour mark through Andy Magagula, but they were unable to hold onto their advantage. Iddy Nado equalized for Tanzania, and Shekhani Khamis scored the decisive winner in the second half, ensuring Tanzania’s victory and Madagascar’s progression.
The stage is now set for what promises to be an exhilarating semi-final round as four nations battle for a place in the Hollywoodbets COSAFA Cup final.