Sundowns Ladies edge closer to Caf Women’s Champions League

One more game to win, and Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies will be representing Southern Africa at the Caf Women’s Champions League in Egypt this year.

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But, Sundowns need to beat Black Rhino Queens of Zimbabwe after they booked their place in the final of the Caf Women’s Champions League/Cosafa qualifiers by edging Green Buffaloes 1-0 in the semi-finals played at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Thursday.

It wasn’t easy for the South Africans coming up against Buffaloes from Zambia, who managed to contain a very good attacking Downs team in both halves.

Sundowns created plenty of opportunities to score and Buffaloes almost shot themselves on the foot by scoring an own-goal in the 28^th minute, but the half-hour passed with no goals scored from either side.  

In the 40^th minute, Lerato Kgasago got a glorious opportunity to finally beat Buffaloes goalkeeper Aisha Mbwana in a one on one, but her attempt was fruitless.

Towards the break, Sundowns finally broke the dead-lock through Melinda Kgadiete to put them in control of the match.

The second saw the home side looking much rejuvenated, keen to go for more goals.

But the story was the same, as Downs found it difficult to add to their tally.

Meanwhile, Buffaloes captain Joana Benai and company pushed hard to try and get an equaliser, but Downs remained solid at the back, not allowing their opponents a sniff at their goals.

The tie looked to be a nervy one, especially for Downs, who have been on a goal spree after scoring 18 goals in their last three group stages matches.

Buffaloes really gave their all, but it wasn’t to he for them as they saw their run in the tournament being ended by Downs.

Sundowns Ladies will now shift their focus to the final against Rhino Queens at the same venue on Saturday for a spot in the inaugural women’s continental tournament.