The Council of Southern African Football Associations (COSAFA) is taking steps to adhere more closely to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) club licensing regulations by implementing coaching standards in the upcoming COSAFA Cup. COSAFA Secretary General Sue Destombes confirmed this development to SABC Sport, emphasizing that it was inspired by CAF's efforts to train coaches. A circular shared with the 14 member associations, which SABC Sport has had access to, outlines the new regulations. According to the circular, only coaches holding CAF Pro, A, or B licenses will be permitted to sit on the bench during the COSAFA Cup. These regulations will come into effect during the tournament taking place in Durban from July 5th to 16th. Destombes explained that the decision to introduce coaching standards was reached after discussions within COSAFA's technical and development standing committee and competitions. The aim is to raise the bar and ensure quality coaching across the region. The move is also in response to concerns expressed by CAF President and some member associations about the return on investment in COSAFA tournaments. Valid licenses from sister Confederations, such as UEFA Pro, A, and B licenses, will be accepted. The circular further specifies that only assistant coaches holding CAF Pro, A, B, or C licenses will be allowed on the bench. Destombes stressed the importance of qualified coaches leading senior national teams and the need to invest in their training.