Bauleni United from Zambia wins Best Costume Award at Gothia Cup 2025

Celebrations of joy and excitement followed as Bauleni United was named the winner of the Best Costume Award 2025 after their performance at Monday’s Opening Ceremony. The G16 team impressed the crowd with traditional attire and a dance that reflected their cultural heritage.

he Best Costume Award is presented annually during Gothia Cup’s Opening Ceremony, recognizing the team that showcases its culture in an especially creative and expressive way through their parade outfits. In addition to the honor, the prize includes free participation fees for up to 18 players in next year’s tournament. When Bauleni United was announced as this year’s winner, they celebrated with cheers and dance.

– I’m very happy and grateful for the opportunity to be here and to win. Our clothes represent Zambia, and it felt great to share our culture during the Opening Ceremony. It’s my first time at Gothia Cup, and I’m really looking forward to coming back next year, said Vainess Namusamba, one of the players on the team.

Bauleni United is participating in this year’s tournament through SKF’s Meet the World initiative – a global program that gives young people from various parts of the world the chance to take part in Gothia Cup and experience international fellowship through football.

– It’s amazing to be here, and the players have dreamed of participating for a long time. This opportunity means so much to the girls. Many wouldn’t have been able to come without this project. We’re incredibly thankful to win Best Costume. The team proudly showcased our culture through traditional Zambian attire, said the team’s coach Kaluba Kangwa.

The winning outfits were inspired by the traditions of the Ngoni people, symbolizing warriors who show respect and reverence for nature and the world around them. In addition to the costumes, the team performed a choreographed dance made up of four different traditional Zambian dances. One of these, Mwambo wa Chingoni, carries the message of respect between generations and communities – and the idea that we all need each other.

Gothia Cup’s Best Costume Award is more than just a prize – it’s a celebration of diversity, identity, and unity. With strength and joy, Bauleni United demonstrated what culture, pride, and team spirit can mean at the world’s largest youth football tournament.