In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies reclaimed their position at the summit of African women’s football by securing a resounding 3-0 victory over Morocco’s SC Casablanca in the CAF Women’s Champions League final on Sunday. The triumph unfolded at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium in Korhogo, Cote d’Ivoire, where Tholakele Refilwe’s brace and Boitumelo Rabale’s strike sealed the historic win.
Sundowns’ journey to glory was not only marked by reclaiming the title surrendered last season but also by setting a remarkable record of lifting the trophy without conceding a single goal throughout the tournament. The victory was achieved in front of a packed stadium, further amplifying the significance of the moment.
The match, the second encounter between the two teams in the tournament, showcased Sundowns’ clear mission to reclaim the title. Refilwe’s penalty conversion in the 21st minute set the tone, followed by Rabale’s clinical finish, securing a two-goal lead before halftime. The Moroccans struggled to break through Sundowns’ steadfast defense in the second half, and Tholakele’s 78th-minute goal sealed the victory, securing Sundowns’ second CAF Women’s Champions League title.
Quotes from the coaches reflected the sportsmanship displayed on the field. SC Casablanca coach Mehdi El Qaichori commended Sundowns for their excellent performance, acknowledging them as the better team. Sundowns coach Jerry Tshabalala expressed his happiness and highlighted the team’s aspirations, including the hope for a Women’s Club World Cup representation.
Road to Glory: Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF Women’s Champions League Campaign
| Stage | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | JKT Queens | 2 – 0 |
| Group Stage | SC Casablanca | 1 – 0 |
| Group Stage | Athletico Abidjan | 3 – 0 |
| Semi-Finals | AS FAR | 1 – 0 |
| Final | SC Casablanca | 3 – 0 |
Following the successful conclusion of the CAF Women’s Champions League, individual award winners were announced:
- Best Player of the Tournament: Boitumelo Rabale (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Top Goalscorer: Tholakele Refilwe (Mamelodi Sundowns) – 5 Goals
- Fair Play Team of the Tournament: Mamelodi Sundowns
The awards highlight the outstanding contributions of individual players and the collective sportsmanship displayed by Mamelodi Sundowns throughout the tournament.