Eight of the Best: Banyana Ba Style demolish Olympic De Moroni in COSAFA opener

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies kicked off their CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA zonal qualifier with a flying start, securing a comprehensive 8-0 victory over Olympic de Moroni of Comoros in their opening Group B fixture.

During his pre-match comments, Coach Jerry ‘Kappa’ Tshabalala backed his troops to convert their early chances, and they indeed did. Chuene Morifi secured the game’s opening goal as early as the 10th minute, while Tiisetso Makhubela doubled the lead ten minutes before the break.

After the restart, the floodgates opened with Makhubela completing her brace, while Boitumelo Rabale, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Refilwe Tholakele, Salome Kekana and Miche Minnies all found the back of the net in the one-sided fixture.

Despite not scoring, 21-year-old Khunjulwa Mali delivered an impressive performance and the midfielder was pleased with her performance as well as the team.

“We played very well as a team and we utilized the ball very well in key areas. We planned to convert our chances as goals win you games. I am pleased with the opportunity to contribute to the team’s efforts. It is not just about individual performance; it is about collective efforts and the shared determination to achieve our objectives. We will continue to work hard, improve and maintain this level of commitment in the upcoming matches,” Mali stated.

Morifi, whose goal provided the impetus for the team to build upon, hailed Coach Jerry’s tactics, saying, “It was a very good fixture as we applied ourselves well during the preparations. Throughout the game, we remained composed and made sure to heed the coach’s advice on being patient. We also ensured that we did not get too comfortable even when the goals kept coming. He further reminded us that the tournament hasn’t started yet, so we need to keep our focus on the ultimate goal. We will carry this mindset forward into the rest of the tournament.”

The eight goals scored today match the tally achieved last year during the 8-1 victory against Mozambique’s Costa Do Sol in the opening fixture as well.

In the other Group B fixture played earlier today, Costa Do Sol secured a 2-1 victory over Young Buffaloes. The Brazilians are currently leading Group B due to their superior goal difference.

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies will face Young Buffaloes from Eswatini in their next match on Saturday, September 2nd, at the Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium in Durban. The kick-off is scheduled for 15:30.