The race for a place at the 2027 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) starts this Friday in Mozambique.
Twelve teams from Southern Africa will take part in the COSAFA U-20 Championship, which runs from September 18 to 27.
The teams are not only fighting for the regional title. They are also hoping to win one of the two places available for the 2027 U-20 AFCON in Ghana.
Young players ready to shine
The tournament will give young footballers a chance to represent their countries and show what they can do.
For some of these players, the competition could also be a step towards senior international football. A good performance in Mozambique could attract attention from clubs and national team coaches.
The teams will first play in groups before the competition moves into the knockout stage.
Zambia, South Africa and Mozambique have experience
Three teams in the competition already know what it takes to win the regional title.
Zambia, South Africa and Mozambique are the only teams among the 12 that have previously won the COSAFA U-20 championship.
Zambia have been particularly successful, winning the competition 12 times.
South Africa will also be hoping to go far after winning the tournament in 2024.
Mozambique, meanwhile, will have home support behind them as they try to win the title again.
Two tickets to Ghana
While winning the COSAFA title will be important, qualification for the U-20 AFCON will be the main target for the teams.
Only two Southern African teams will qualify for the 2027 continental tournament in Ghana.
This means every match will matter. A poor result could make the road to Ghana much harder.
Mozambique ready for the action
With the tournament starting Friday, football fans across Southern Africa are preparing for 10 days of young talent, competition and national pride.
The players will be looking to make the most of their opportunity, while their countries will be hoping to secure a place at next year's African championship.
The first whistle in Mozambique will mark the beginning of the journey to Ghana.
For Southern Africa's young footballers, the chance to make a name for themselves starts now.