25 August 2024 – South African Football Association (SAFA) President Dr Danny Jordaan has congratulated the University of the Western Cape (UWC) after coach Thinasonke Mbuli’s team won the regional CAF Women’s Champions League | COSAFA Qualifier on Saturday.
UWC beat Botswana’s Gaborone United 9-8 on post-match penalties to win the regional title in Malawi and join compatriots Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies at the continental finals to be held later this year.
Dr Jordaan said Banyana Banyana assistant coach Mbuli’s achievement would benefit women’s football in South Africa and the continent and give the sport more options as the African champions plan their defence of the continental title.
“What an achievement by coach Thinasonke and her players. Banyana Banyana became the first ever football national team – men and women – to reach the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup last year and this win in Malawi ensures that we will continue to produce more players into the system,” said the SAFA President.
SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao said Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis now has more options as South Africa heads to the continental championship with two teams from the country.
“Brilliant, coach Desiree Ellis must be so happy,” said the SAFA CEO. “You cannot buy this kind of experience. I am a proud CEO and also a massive fan of women’s football, and this achievement is incredibly special. Think about it, we will have two teams at the continental championships!!”.
