Motsepe reveals secret behind Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies’ dominance ahead of CAF Champions League

Mamelodi Sundowns FC chairman Thlopie Motsepe has credited the commitment of players and the club’s long-term investment in talent development for the continued success of Sundowns Ladies as they prepare to represent South Africa at the CAF Women’s Champions League in Egypt.

Motsepe made the remarks after watching Sundowns Ladies secure a commanding 5-0 victory over TS Galaxy Queens in the Hollywoodbets Super League, a result that kept them at the top of the standings ahead of their continental assignment.

The chairman believes the team’s achievements stem from years of investment, discipline and an understanding of the challenges players face while pursuing football alongside other professional commitments.

Motsepe highlights commitment and grassroots development

Motsepe pointed to the club’s sustained commitment to nurturing young players as a major factor behind Sundowns Ladies’ success, stressing that building a competitive team requires patience and consistency.

He cited goalkeeper Andile Dlamini’s progression through the club’s structure and the longevity of coach Rhoda as examples of the continuity that has helped establish the women’s team.

“It is not something that happens overnight. 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. 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,” said Motsepe.

His comments highlight the importance of creating an environment in which players can develop while managing responsibilities outside the sport.

Motsepe acknowledged that some players must balance employment with their football careers, making the club’s understanding of their circumstances an important part of its approach.

The chairman’s assessment also underlined the value of maintaining relationships within the team over several years, allowing players and technical staff to build experience and consistency.

Five-star performance provides Champions League boost

Sundowns Ladies delivered an emphatic performance against TS Galaxy Queens, scoring five goals without reply to maintain their position at the summit of the Hollywoodbets Super League.

The victory provided a timely boost ahead of their departure for Egypt, where they will represent South Africa in the CAF Women’s Champions League.

Motsepe praised the players and head coach Godfrey for their performance, while also acknowledging the supporters whose presence and encouragement helped create a positive atmosphere.

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

The chairman believes the backing from supporters can provide an additional source of motivation as the team turns its attention to the continental competition.

Having maintained their domestic momentum with a convincing win, Sundowns Ladies will now look to carry that form into a tournament that brings together some of Africa’s leading women’s clubs.

Sundowns board throws support behind continental mission

Motsepe has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete in Egypt, emphasising that the players have the backing of the club’s leadership, management and supporters.

He also highlighted the team’s previous performances on the continental stage as a reason for optimism ahead of their latest campaign.

“They need to go out there and make us proud. 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 expressed.

Sundowns Ladies will seek to translate their domestic consistency into another strong showing in the CAF Women’s Champions League as they pursue continental success.