Motsepe credits commitment and grassroots work for Sundowns Ladies success

Mamelodi Sundowns FC chairman Thlopie Motsepe says the dedication of the players and the club’s long-term investment in developing talent have been central to Sundowns Ladies’ success.

Motsepe watched from the stands as Sundowns Ladies defeated TS Galaxy Queens 5-0 to remain top of the Hollywoodbets Super League standings.

The chairman said the progress of the team had been built over time, with the club supporting players who combine football with other employment.

“It is not something that happens overnight,” Motsepe told SABC Sport. “We can talk about players such as Andile Dlamini, who came into the structure when they were very young. We also have coach Rhoda, who has been with the club for over 15 years.”

He said the club’s approach involved understanding the demands placed on semi-professional players, many of whom have part-time jobs alongside their football careers.

“The secret is commitment from the players, and it is also us having compassion in understanding that some of these players have part-time jobs and still manage to create time for football,” Motsepe added.

The victory came before Sundowns Ladies’ departure for Egypt, where they will represent South Africa in the CAF Women’s Champions League.

Motsepe praised the players for their performance and coach Godfrey for his work, while also highlighting the influence of the supporters who attended the match.

“Congratulations to the players for an amazing performance today, and well done to coach Godfrey,” he said.

“We are also grateful to our supporters for coming out here to boost the players’ confidence. The singing and chanting mean a great deal to the club.”

Motsepe hopes the support shown at the match will provide additional encouragement when the team begins its continental campaign.

“I just hope that the ladies can take this energy with them when they go to Egypt to represent the country in the CAF Champions League,” he said.

He also reaffirmed the backing Sundowns Ladies have received from the club’s board, management and supporters, and said he expected the players to continue performing at the highest level on the continental stage.

“They need to go out there and make us proud,” Motsepe said. “They have our full support, from the board, the management and all the support you see here.”

“South Africa is truly behind this team, and we have seen these players show up on the continental stage,” he added.