Lelona Daweti scores superb hat-trick as Brazilians reach semi-final of COSAFA Qualifiers

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies have secured a spot in the semi-finals of the CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA zonal qualifiers, following a commanding 4-0 victory over Eswatini’s Young Buffaloes on a Saturday afternoon.

An excellent hat-trick from Lelona Daweti, coupled with a goalfrom Andisiwe Mgcoyi, was enough to send Banyana Ba Style into the last four of the regional competition.

Having netted eight times against Olympic de Moroni in their last outing, the Brazilians aimed to maintain their impressive goal-scoring form. Daweti’s early strike in the eighth minute once again set the tone for another dominant attacking performance.

The reigning Hollywoodbets Super League Champions continued to apply the pressure but were unable to add to their tally before the halftime whistle.

Sundowns Ladies emerged from the break with renewed determination to extend their lead and they did just that with Lelona scoring twice to complete her hat-trick. Additionally, Andisiwe added a late goal to seal another memorable victory for Banyana Ba Style.

Zanele Nhlapho, who returned to the starting lineup after missing the opening game due to suspension, expressed her satisfaction with the team’s character.

“I am very happy with the overall performance of the team and today’s victory further underlined our determination to win this tournament. I am pleased that we are converting our chances, as that is what we are known for. This excellent result also brings us closer to our ultimate aim of winning the COSAFA tournament. Everyone played very well today and we are ready for the next one,” Zanele stated.

The hat-trick hero, Daweti, who was named Player of the Match, dedicated the award to her teammates as well as the technical team.

“We are very excited about the win today, as it was all down to hard work. We thank the coaches for providing us with good information, which we implemented and that helped us. When you convert chances, winning games becomes quite easy. My teammates were also supportive and this award is dedicated to everyone within the team. We aim to carry this momentum into the next game, as we strive for more victories as a united force,” said Lelona.

In the earlier Group B fixture played today, Costa Do Sol secured a 2-1 victory over Olympic de Moroni. That result meant both Sundowns Ladies and Costa Do Sol have successfully secured their spots in the semifinals.

The Brazilians will aim to continue their perfect run in the competition as they square off against the Mozambicans in the third and final group game on Monday, September 4th, at the Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium in Durban. The kick-off is scheduled for 15:30.