Aurelio, 2 Other Players in COSAFA Cup Chiefs, Pirates, Sundowns Should Consider Signing

• Angola clinched the 2025 COSAFA Cup title after defeating hosts South Africa 3-0 in the final at Free State Stadium
• Several players impressed during the competition, with some standing out for their excellent performances on the field
• Renowned sports journalist Uche Anuma in an exclusive chat with Briefly News highlighted his top three players of the tournament and has advised top Premier Soccer League clubs like Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Orlando Pirates to consider signing them

The 2025 COSAFA Cup is done and dusted, with Angola emerging as champions after defeating hosts South Africa in the final at the Free State Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Angola also equalled South Africa's record of the country with the most wins in COSAFA Cup history. The two nations are now levelled on five titles each as Bafana Bafana B failed to make it six.

Many players showcased their talents in the competition, but a few stood out with their performance for their respective countries.

A renowned sport journalist has identified some of the players who stood out because of their contribution in the tournament.

Top 3 Players in the COSAFA Cup

Sports journalist Uche Anuma, in a chat with Briefly News, has listed the top three performers for him in the COSAFA Cup and advised that one of Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns, or Orlando Pirates should consider signing them.

"It was a nice tournament, but it was unfortunate that South Africa didn't end up as champions, with Angola deserving to win," he said.

"The competition gave some of the fringe players in the national team, and those who don't make the first team, a chance to showcase their talents.

"Angola forward Laurindo Aurélio stood tall among other players, bagging eight goals and winning the Player of the Tournament and Golden Boot awards. It might be hard to prize him out of his current club as he currently plays in Europe, but he's a player PSL clubs can invest in.

"Ime Okon also had a great tournament, but I am still surprised that one of the big three in the Betway Premiership are yet to snap him up from SuperSport United. He is also linked with a move abroad, but he should remain in the PSL with one of the top sides.

"Another player who surprised me in this year's edition is Adilson Da Cruz. He was the reason South Africa lost in the final, as he was solid in goal for the Sable Antelopes.

"Kaizer Chiefs need a goalkeeper, and he can be an option for them if they consider signing a new shot-stopper from outside South Africa."

Vela Khumalo also explained why his team lost to Angola despite being the better side for most part of the match.

Why Bafana Bafana B lost to Angola in COSAFA Cup final

Briefly News earlier reported that Bafana Bafana B head coach Vela Khumalo was told why South Africa lost against defending champions Angola despite being the better side in the final of the COSAFA Cup final.

The Bafana Bafana B side dominated the possession in both halves of the game but were unable to convert their chances when they are in front of goal.

Source: Briefly News