History was made as the University of the Western Cape become the first-ever University team to qualify for the CAF Women’s Champions League, joining defending champs Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies for a first-ever appearance by two South African teams in pursuit of Africa’s most prestigious club trophy.
The team from Cape Town was victorious in the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA Qualifiers, beating Gaborone United 9-8 on penalties after the sides competed regular time tied in Blantyre, Malawi, on Saturday, 24 August 2024.
After close chances failed to convert, a volley from Noxolo Cesane saw the South Africans break the deadlock to take the lead in the 71st minute.
Their opponents from Botswana refused to go down without a fight, and their efforts were rewarded nine minutes later, when Laone Moloi headed the ball into the back of the net to the delight of her team, for the two teams to play to a 1-all draw in regulation time.
With the two teams deadlocked, the result came down to penalties and it was UWC goalkeeper Siphesihle Dlamini who scored a penalty before going on to save United’s ninth penalty shot, before UWC Simnikiwe Mhlakaza slotted the winner for her team to earn the massive victory.
The UWC shot-stopper also went on to claim the title of Golden Glove for being the best goalkeeper, while the tournament Golden Boot award was shared by UWC’s Bongeka Gamede of UWC and Siphilisiwe Ndlovu from Green Buffaloes, after both players scored three goals in the tournament. The UWC also took home the tournament’s Fair Play award.
Main Photo Caption: History made as the University of the Western Cape will join Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies in the CAF Women’s Champions League, after the Cape Town team was victorious in the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League | COSAFA Qualifiers, beating Gaborone United 9-8 on penalties to lift the trophy in Malawi on Saturday, 24 August 2024. Photos: COSAFAMedia on X
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