After settling for a 1-1 draw away to the University of the Western Cape, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies return to home soil with renewed determination as they prepare to face the University of Pretoria this Wednesday.
The defending Champions remain top of the Hollywoodbets Super League standings, but the result against UWC served as a timely reminder of the competitiveness of the league. Despite the draw, there is a strong sense of focus and motivation in the camp.
Midfielder Noxolo Cesane spoke passionately about the team’s mentality ahead of the upcoming clash.
“From my perspective, the team is highly inspired and encouraged. You can see it in how we have approached our preparations. Every aspect of our game is being carefully considered, and we are leaving nothing to chance. The focus, the attention to detail, and the overall commitment from everyone have been inspiring. Our eyes are firmly on the prize we are working toward, and that goal is keeping us grounded and determined.”
Cesane also praised the sharpness and effort she has seen on the training ground in recent days.“The level of intensity and precision in training has been very impressive. Everyone knows what is at stake, and we are all determined to improve on our last performance. We have been working hard on execution and decision-making, and that work will show on match day.”
Midfielder Katleho Malebana echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the team is eager to respond positively after dropping points in Cape Town.
“The team is very motivated. We were disappointed not to come away with all three points against UWC, especially given the chances we created. But we have taken the positives from that performance. There was a lot to be proud of, and now the players are hungry to bounce back. Training has been sharp, the sessions have been focused, and we are all aligned on what we want to achieve on Wednesday.”
Looking ahead, Malebana stressed the importance of momentum, especially with key fixtures and tournaments like the COSAFA Women’s Championship looming on the horizon.
“We understand the importance of getting back to winning ways as quickly as possible. Momentum plays a crucial role, and we are all aware of the high standard we have set for ourselves. One draw does not change our ambitions—in fact, it has only added more fuel to the fire. Everyone is eager to respond in the right way and to show our quality by getting back to winning immediately.”
Banyana Ba Style dominated this fixture last season, winning 8–0 at home and securing a 3–0 victory in the reverse away fixture.
The clash between Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and the University of Pretoria is scheduled for Wednesday, 6 August 2025, at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Kick-off is at 18:00, and the match will be broadcast live on SABC Sport.
