Banyana Banyana assistant coach Thinasonke Mbuli made history by guiding the University of Western Cape to their first-ever qualification for the CAF Women's Champions League.
UWC triumphed over Gaborone United with a score of 9-8 in a penalty shootout, to hoist the regional CAF Women’s Champions League | COSAFA Qualifier trophy on Saturday in Malawi.
UWC will now join South African counterparts Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies at the continental finals later this year. Banyana Ba Style got a bye in qualifiers as they have had several appearances in the Champions League.
The final match between UWC and Gaborone concluded with a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes, and extra time did not yield any further goals.
HOW UWC GOALKEEPER BECAME A HEROINE
UWC's goalkeeper, Siphilisiwe Dlamini, was a heroine as she successfully converted one of the penalties and also saved a shot from United defender Goitsemang Tlamma, ultimately leading to victory for the South African team.
During regular play, UWC took the lead with a volley from Noxolo Cesane in the 71st minute, following a splendid pass from Ntombifikile Ndlovu on the right flank.
But the advantage was short-lived, as Laone Moloi of United equalised just nine minutes later, heading the ball into the net from a well-placed corner-kick.
The match proceeded to extra time, which concluded without any additional goals, necessitating a penalty shootout.
Keitumetse Sithebe, a forward for Gaborone United, was awarded the Player of the Tournament, while the Golden Glove for the best goalkeeper went to Siphesihle Dlamini of UWC.
Bongeka Gamede from UWC and Siphilisiwe Ndlovu of Gaborone United both received the Golden Boot, having each scored three goals in the finals. Additionally, UWC was honored with the Fair Play award.
