After a busy last few weeks filled with mixed emotions in continental competitions, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies will be hoping to resume the defense of their Hollywoodbets Super League title when they travel to face Golden Ladies.
The spine of the team recently linked up with South Africa as Banyana Banyana made history as they defeated host nation Morocco 2-1 to clinch the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
A few weeks later, Banyana Ba Style reached the 2022 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA Qualifier final and suffered a 6-5 penalty shoot-out defeat to Zambian champions Green Buffaloes.
As a result of those continental commitments, Sundowns Ladies have slipped down to fifth on the Hollywoodbets Super League standings. Nevertheless, The Brazilians have five games in hand and will be looking to get back to their winning grove, starting with the clash against Golden Ladies.
Ahead of the encounter, Kappa believes possessing the ball in key areas of the pitch will be key to success.
“Golden Ladies are a team that likes to play from the back and thus we need to be alert with our high pressing. We need to be confident on the ball because they are a team that can spring surprises tactically. Finishing off our chances when they come will also help our cause because we anticipate a very tricky encounter.
The likes of Melinda Kgadiete, Rhoda Mulaudzi, Lerato Kgasago, and Bambanani Mbane were all named on the recently named COSAFA Qualifiers BEST XI. Thus, Coach Jerry believes the team will have to rely on their mental strength and winning mentality as they look to claw their way back up the log.
“The spine of our team comprises winners who have shown their class on the continental stage. Although we cannot ignore the disappointment we suffered during the Final of the COSAFA Qualifiers, we need to believe in ourselves and step up the momentum. True champions know how to fight back, and this is a test of our resolve. We have to come back strong, and we are raring to bounce back. The games will come thick and fast, so we must be ready to embrace the challenge,” Kappa concluded.
Sundowns Ladies dominated Golden Ladies last season. After registering a 4-0 opening-day win over the North West-based side, The Brazilians recorded a 2-1 success in the reverse fixture. The defending champions also smash 11 past their opponents earlier this season with Andisiwe Mgcoyi notably scoring four times.
Mamelodi Sundowns clash against Golden Ladies on Thursday afternoon at the Montshioa Stadium in Mafikeng. The kick-off time for the fixture is 15H00.