Tinotenda Hove – The 2025 COSAFA U17 tournament will break new ground this year with the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, a first for the youth competition.

The regional showcase kicks off today at Ngoni MWOS Stadium in Norton, Zimbabwe.

COSAFA Head of Referees, Felix Tangawarima, said the adoption of VAR at this level marks a significant step forward in ensuring fairness and accuracy in decision-making on the pitch.

“This is a historic moment for COSAFA and African football as a whole. Introducing VAR at the U17 level not only helps us improve the standard of refereeing but also prepares both players and officials for modern football, where technology is an integral part of the game,” Tangawarima explained.

He added that referees selected for the tournament have undergone intensive training to ensure smooth implementation of the system.

The development also signals COSAFA’s commitment to aligning its competitions with international standards, particularly as the U17 tournament doubles as qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.

With the Young Warriors among the teams in action, Zimbabwean fans will be eager to see both their rising stars and the new technology in play as the tournament unfolds.