Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies produced another statement performance in Gaborone, sweeping aside Gaborone United Ladies 5–0 to book their place in the COSAFA Women’s Champions League Qualifier final.
The Brazilians wasted little time asserting their authority, with Refilwe Tholakele opening the scoring in the 20th minute. The Player of the Match then struck again in the second half, completing her brace in the 65th minute and further strengthening Sundowns’ control of the contest.
Nonhlanhla Mthandi added her name to the scoresheet in first-half stoppage time, while Isabella Ludwig extended the advantage in the 76th minute. Wendy Shongwe completed the rout in the 90th minute plus stoppage time, capping another emphatic performance from the Brazilians.
The victory was particularly significant given the quality of the opposition. Gaborone United entered the semifinal as the defending COSAFA Champions. The Brazilians, however, produced a clinical and disciplined display to end the hosts’ title defence emphatically.
Speaking after the match, Asanda Hadebe praised the team’s collective performance and underlined Sundowns’ determination to go all the way in Botswana.
“I think we had a good game. About the team’s performance, I think we as a team want to win this tournament and are playing as a unit to reach our goals. We are focused, we believe in each other and we are ready to give everything to achieve what we came here for.”
For Andile Dlamini, the semifinal victory was the result of the unity, preparation and hard work shown by the entire squad and coaching staff.
“It was a great win. Everyone played fantastically and we all did our part as a united front. The coaching staff did a great job. So many things we did during the game were executed from what we worked on together in training. We are united.”
Dlamini also reflected on the opportunity to overcome last year’s disappointment, when Sundowns were eliminated by ZESCO Ndola Girls in the semifinal, and insisted the team is better prepared for the challenge that awaits them.
“Qualifying for the final is very special after last year’s disappointment. We are up against a strong team. They took us out last year and this time we are prepared. Overall, it was a great team performance, and thanks to the supporters in Botswana for all the support.”
Banyana Ba Style will face Zambia’s ZESCO Ndola Girls in the COSAFA CAFWCL Qualifier final on Saturday, 29 August 2026, at the Gaborone United Stadium.
