Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies will aim to extend their flawless defensive record and strengthen their hold on the 2025 Hollywoodbets Super League title race when they travel to face TUT Matsatsantsa in a highly anticipated Tshwane Derby on Sunday at the TUT Pretoria Stadium.
Following a commanding 6–0 victory over Richmond United last time out, Banyana Ba Style enter the weekend full of confidence. The Brazilians remain unbeaten in their opening ten matches, boasting nine wins and one draw, and remarkably, ten consecutive clean sheets. With 30 goals scored and none conceded, Downs has set a formidable benchmark for the rest of the league.
However, Sunday’s encounter is expected to be one of their sternest challenges yet, as they take on a second-placed TUT side that has suffered only one defeat this season. The Tshwane Derby is always a passionate affair, and with league positioning and bragging rights at stake, this edition promises even more intensity.
The rivalry between these two Pretoria giants produced contrasting results last season. The sides battled to a hard-fought one-all draw in their first meeting, but Sundowns Ladies responded emphatically in the reverse fixture, recording a 5–0 triumph. That result was powered by two goals from Andisiwe Mgcoyi and Rhoda Mulaudzi, while Lelona Daweti added the fifth.
Khutso Pila, a central figure in Sundowns’ rock-solid defense this season, views the derby as more than just another game:
“I feel like it is a chance for us as players to make a statement. It is an opportunity to showcase our determination against a rival team. Not conceding a goal this season is an impressive achievement, and everyone is in high spirits in camp. We are motivated to keep the momentum going. The plan is to remain focused and continue believing in our game plan. This team knows what it stands for—we have built trust in our structure and our style of play. This match is about showing consistency and pride.”
Midfielder Noxolo Cesane echoed those sentiments, highlighting the team’s unity and shared ambition:
“Honestly, we need to ensure that we achieve a positive result. As a team, we must utilize everything we have worked on to secure three points. It is not just about the derby; it is about continuing the journey we are on. I believe success comes from working with a group of people who share the same goals. That shared vision—both on and off the field—is the driving force behind our daily achievements.”
The Tshwane Derby between Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and TUT Matsatsantsa is scheduled to take place at the TUT Pretoria Stadium on Sunday, 25 May, at 15:00. The match will be broadcast live on SABC Sport.
