The latest international window once again highlighted the influence of Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies on South African women’s football, as several of our key players played starring roles in Banyana Banyana’s back-to-back friendly wins over Algeria.
The national team wrapped up a strong double-header in KwaZulu-Natal, winning 1-0 and 2-0 respectively at the Princess Magogo Stadium and a packed King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi.
While the results were important in their own right as preparations for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations continue, the real standout story was the continued dominance and leadership coming from Sundowns Ladies players within the squad.
Nthabiseng Majiya delivers again in front of goal
Forward Nthabiseng Majiya was among the most influential players across both friendlies, scoring in each match and continuing her sharp attacking form on the international stage.
Her latest strike came in the 58th minute of the second fixture, breaking the deadlock with a composed finish. The goals are a continuation of her prolific form at Club level, where she scored 12 goals last season as Sundowns Ladies retained the Hollywoodbets Super League title. Her consistency in both domestic and international football has made her one of the most reliable attacking threats in the country.
Bambanani Mbane reaches 100 caps in a landmark moment
Defensive leader Bambanani Mbane also reached a major career milestone, earning her 100th cap for South Africa.
Although she was part of the rotated squad for the second friendly, her milestone remains one of the standout moments of the camp. Mbane’s leadership, calmness and experience have long been central to Banyana’s defensive stability and her achievement reflects the consistency she has brought over many years at the top level.
Karabo Dhlamini celebrates 50 international appearances
Another milestone came for defender Karabo Dhlamini, who marked her 50th cap in the 2-0 win over Algeria.
Her achievement came in a match where Banyana made six changes, with the coaching staff rotating the squad while maintaining control of the game. Dhlamini’s steady rise has made her a dependable option in the national setup, reflecting the depth emerging within the group.
South Africa will return to action in June with two international friendlies against Japan as preparations for WAFCON continue. The matches are set for 6 June at Nagai Ballgame Field in Osaka, followed by 9 June at J-Green Sakai in Osaka.
Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies continue to ramp up their preparations ahead of the new domestic season, maintaining their high standards as they look to extend their dominance in the Hollywoodbets Super League as well as on the continental stage.
