Sundowns claim victory in CAF Women’s Champions League Cosafa Qualifier
Mamelodi Sundowns won the CAF Women’s Champions League Cosafa Qualifier after defeating Zesco Ndola Girls 2-1. The victory secures their spot in the continental finals, with the team sweeping individual tournament awards.
Why it matters
The win reinforces Mamelodi Sundowns' dominance in regional women's football and highlights the growth of the sport in Southern Africa.
Mamelodi Sundowns defeated Zesco Ndola Girls 2-1 in the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League | Cosafa Qualifier in Gaborone on Saturday to claim a third regional title and book their place at the continental finals.
Two goals from Golden Boot winner Refilwe Tholakele, one from the penalty spot, sealed the victory as Sundowns added to their 2021 and 2023 regional titles. On both of those previous occasions, they went on to win the continental crown.
Charity Mubanga had levelled for Zesco on the stroke of halftime, but when Sundowns were awarded a penalty in the second half, Tholakele made no mistake from the spot.
It was a tight final and more heartbreak for Zesco, who lost the decider for the second year in a row, having gone down on penalties to Gaborone United in 2025.
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