In a moment of pride for the nation, Zambia’s Under-18 and Under-20 women’s national handball teams have clinched victory at the 2025 Zone 6 IHF Trophy Tournament, securing their spots in the upcoming 2025 IHF African Championship. The regional competition, which took place in Harare, Zimbabwe from April 28 to May 3, saw teams from across Southern Africa compete for top honors, with Zambia emerging as the undisputed champion in both age categories.
U18 Women’s Handball Team Dominates the Final
In a thrilling final, the Zambia U18 women’s handball team showcased their superior tactical discipline and physical endurance, defeating the hosts, Zimbabwe, with a resounding 30-22 victory. The Zambian squad displayed a well-rounded performance, balancing both offensive prowess and defensive solidity to overpower their Zimbabwean counterparts.
Throughout the tournament, the U18 team demonstrated impressive teamwork, quick counterattacks, and clinical finishing, earning praise for their consistency and resilience. Their win not only earned them the coveted Zone 6 IHF Trophy but also secured their qualification for the prestigious 2025 IHF African Championship.
U20 Women’s Handball Team Wins in Nail-Biting Final
Meanwhile, the Zambia U20 women’s handball team followed suit, delivering an equally impressive performance in the final against Malawi. In one of the most thrilling matches of the tournament, the Zambian team triumphed 39-38 in a nail-biting, high-scoring contest. The match saw both teams exchange leads throughout, but Zambia’s composure and quick decision-making in the dying moments helped them secure a narrow but well-deserved win.
The U20 squad’s victory was a testament to their strength under pressure, with standout performances from key players who showed remarkable skill and mental toughness in the face of intense competition. Their triumph also ensures that Zambia will be represented at the 2025 IHF African Championship, where they will compete against some of the best teams from across the continent.
A Historic Achievement for Zambian Handball
The dual triumphs of both the Under-18 and Under-20 teams represent a historic achievement for Zambian handball, with both teams now set to make their mark on the continental stage. Their victories at the Zone 6 IHF Trophy Tournament highlight the growing strength and potential of the sport in Zambia.
The teams’ performances also underscore the importance of grassroots development and youth engagement in sports. The Zambia Handball Federation (ZHF) and coaching staff have worked tirelessly to nurture young talent, and their efforts are now paying off on the regional and international stage.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the Zambia U18 and U20 teams prepare for the 2025 IHF African Championship, they will no doubt carry the hopes of a nation eager to see them succeed on the continental level. Their performances in Harare have demonstrated that Zambia has the talent, determination, and spirit to compete with the best, and their future looks incredibly promising.
With both teams now firmly on the path to continental glory, the 2025 IHF African Championship promises to be a defining moment in Zambia’s handball history.