By africatopsports.com

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has applauded Zimbabwe for successfully hosting the 2026 CAF African Schools Football Championship, praising the country for delivering a well organised and memorable tournament that brought together young talent from across the continent.

Staged at Gateway High School in Harare and Ngoni Stadium in Norton, the week long competition turned into far more than just a football tournament.

It became a celebration of African youth development, opportunity and unity, with Zimbabwe playing host to players, coaches, football legends, volunteers, officials and supporters in a vibrant festival of the game.

Speaking during the finals, Dr Motsepe commended Zimbabwe and underlined the importance of giving hosting opportunities to countries that may not always be viewed as traditional front runners for major events, saying such occasions help grow the game across the continent.

“It is very important that we continue to give hosting opportunities to countries that would not ordinarily qualify for such events, because in doing so we give them a platform to compete at the highest level, to showcase their abilities and to prove that they too can organise and deliver football of the highest standard,” said Dr Motsepe.

His remarks carried special significance for Zimbabwe, whose successful hosting of the championship offered a strong statement of intent. With CAF oversight and ZIFA working hand in hand throughout the week, the tournament ran smoothly and professionally, from logistics and match operations to fan engagement, legacy activities and the overall matchday experience.

Hundreds of volunteers played their part in making the event a success, while African football legends added further value through their presence and interaction with the young players. Zimbabwean fans also embraced the tournament with warmth and enthusiasm, helping to create a welcoming atmosphere that reflected the country’s passion for football and its readiness to stage major continental events.

For ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi, the tournament represented both a proud moment and an important learning experience for Zimbabwean football.