It was the first time since 2011 that the competition took place, as the 2012 event was cancelled while COSAFA concentrated their effort into organising a football competition as part of the Zone Six Games.

[2] Lesotho was the host nation of the competition.

The competition was open to players born on or after 1 January 1994.

All four group winners advanced to the semi-final stage.

[4] The draw for the first round group stages took place in Maseru October 11.