22 goals. Five matches. Four individual awards. One unforgettable campaign.
Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies underlined their dominance at the 2026 COSAFA Women’s Champions League Qualifier, not only lifting the trophy but also sweeping up the major individual honours at the end of the tournament.
The Brazilians finished their campaign with an incredible 22 goals in five matches, showcasing their attacking quality and consistency from the opening game through to the final.
Banyana Ba Style began their title-winning journey with an emphatic 8–0 victory over Nsingizini Hotspurs, with Lelona Daweti and Refilwe Tholakele both recording hat-tricks, while Isabella Ludwig and Munashe Mugwara also found the back of the net.
They followed that performance with a composed 3–0 victory over Malawi’s Silver Strikers, as Karabo Dhlamini scored twice and Isabella Ludwig added another. The Brazilians then overcame Mozambique’s Costa do Sol 4–1, with goals from Asanda Hadebe, Wendy Shongwe, Ronnel Donnelly and Melinda Kgadiete.
In the semifinal, Sundowns produced another statement performance, sweeping aside hosts Gaborone United Ladies 5–0. Tholakele struck twice, while Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Ludwig and Shongwe also got on the scoresheet.
The final saw Banyana Ba Style complete their campaign in style, defeating Zambia’s ZESCO Ndola Girls 2–1, with Tholakele scoring both goals to secure their third COSAFA title and send Sundowns back to the CAF Women’s Champions League.
Their remarkable consistency throughout the tournament was reflected in the individual awards, with three Sundowns players recognised among the competition’s best performers.
Player of the Tournament – Karabo Dhlamini
After playing a key role throughout the campaign, Dhlamini was rewarded for her outstanding performances with the Player of the Tournament award.
Top Goalscorer – Refilwe Tholakele (7 goals)
Tholakele was equally outstanding in front of goal. Her brace in the final took her tournament tally to seven goals, earning her the Top Goalscorer award and making her one of the defining figures of Sundowns’ title-winning campaign.
Goalkeeper of the Tournament – Andile Dlamini (2 goals conceded)
At the other end of the pitch, Andile Dlamini was recognised as the Goalkeeper of the Tournament, highlighting the Brazilians’ strength across all areas of the pitch and completing a memorable night of individual recognition for Banyana Ba Style.
Champions on the pitch. Winners at the awards. Banyana Ba Style dominated Botswana!!!
