By Sandile Ndumo 

Image: Supplied

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) will count on the experience of Banyana Banyana stars as they aim to put their COSAFA Women’s Champions League Qualifiers back on track in Blantyre, Malawi today.

The Bellville-based university team – the first university to participate in the CAF Champions League Qualifiers in Africa – will take on FC Ongos of Namibia as they look to bounce back from their 1-0 defeat to Green Buffaloes of Zambia on Thursday. Kick-off for today’s game is at 15h00.

Renowned for pushing boundaries, UWC is ready to step up and represent South Africa with distinction. UWC is South Africa’s representative in this prestigious regional tournament, following the recent triumphs of African champions Mamelodi Sundowns.

Sundowns have set a high bar, dominating both the COSAFA Women’s Champions League and the CAF Women’s Champions League. They clinched the COSAFA title in 2021 and 2023, were runners-up in 2022, and have also won the CAF Women’s Champions League on two occasions.
UWC, as the previous runners-up in the Hollywoodbets Women’s Super League, will carry the Southern African banner in their quest to join Sundowns in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League.

Despite facing the challenge of losing several key players in recent years, UWC, under the leadership of coach Thinasonke Mbuli, still boasts a squad rich in international experience.

Captain Amogelang Motau and Bongeka Gamede bring invaluable experience from their time with Banyana Banyana, having played pivotal roles in South Africa’s recent Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph. Their leadership and global exposure will be crucial for UWC.

Furthermore, Sibulele Holweni, Noxolo Cesane, and Fikile Magama, who were part of Banyana’s squad in the previous World Cup in Paris, along with Lonathemba Mhlongo, who participated in the recent Olympic Qualifiers, and Khanyisa Manengela, who featured in the COSAFA Cup, add further depth and experience to the team.

Though the UWC squad is primarily composed of students, the Caracals possess a compelling mix of talent and international experience that will be vital in their pursuit of CAF Women’s Champions League qualification.

Head coach Mbuli expressed optimism about the team’s readiness. “I believe we are well-prepared,” Mbuli said.

“Our training has been rigorous. We last played a league match on the 4th [August], and some players have been involved in Varsity football. From a conditioning standpoint, we are in good shape; what remains is mental fortitude. Facing some of the top teams from the SADC (Southern African Development Community) region will be a tough challenge.”

Mbuli also underscored the significance of the experienced Banyana players.

“The Banyana players, with their COSAFA, World Cup, and AWCON experience, will be crucial. They understand the pressures and expectations of international play. We won’t burden them with extra pressure; instead, we hope their presence will elevate the team.”

As the second South African team to compete in these qualifiers, UWC sees this as a rare chance for their none-Banyana players to also experience international football.

“Some players may never get another opportunity to represent the national team or play at the continental level,” Mbuli added.

”The Champions League provides that chance. I hope everyone—players, staff, UWC students, and management—recognizes the significance of this tournament. We will go to Malawi and give our utmost effort.”

As UWC embarks on this exciting new chapter, they aim not only to make a significant impact but also to build upon the legacy of South African football excellence.