New Additions, New Ambitions: Noxolo Cesane and Isabella Ludwig Ready to Shine in Yellow

Author: John Aliu

PHOTOGRAPHS BY - Backpage Pix

The Yellow Nation faithful have two new reasons to cheer this season. Noxolo Cesane and Isabella Ludwig—two talented players with very different journeys—have found a shared destination at Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies.

Noxolo Cesane’s Unstoppable Rise

For Noxolo Cesane, football is more than just a sport; it is a journey filled with passion, determination and a deep-rooted connection to her community. Growing up in the lively streets of Gugulethu, Cape Town, Noxolo and her twin sister, Sinoxolo, discovered their love for the game at a young age.

“We first fell in love with the game when we were around 7 or 8. We were always watching our cousin, Lungile Mayekiso, and his friends play. Eventually, Sinoxolo and I joined in and we never stopped.”

The journey of both sisters began with street football, but the turning point came when Noxolo joined Cape Town Roses, where she was guided by Coach Xolile Madikane.

“Coach Madikane saw potential in us and took us to Lwazi Primary School to further develop both mentally and physically. He played a huge role in shaping me as a player and I owe a lot to him. He made us compete against older boys in tournaments, encouraged us to participate in athletics and helped us continuously grow as athletes under his guidance.”

Noxolo’s journey continued to progress as she played for various teams throughout her career. Her youth career began with the Cape Town Roses from 2012 to 2018, where she honed her skills and developed a solid foundation in the sport. From 2018 to 2022, she played at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), where her performance earned her further recognition.

Noxolo’s senior career saw her play for Stade de Reims (France) in 2022 and Tigres UANL (Mexico) in 2023, before returning to UWC in the 2023–2024 season. She then made a move to Eastern Flames (Saudi Arabia), where she continued to excel before making her way to Banyana Ba Style.

Now at Sundowns, Noxolo has brought that street-football grit and hunger to the home of the record-breaking Hollywoodbets Super League winners. Her debut against the University of Fort Hare was a memorable one, not just for her on-the-ball skills, but for the warm reception she received from her new teammates.

“It felt so motivational. No words can describe the welcoming atmosphere I experienced at Masandawana since I arrived. Even the way the supporters welcomed me when I came on to make my debut was overwhelming. Their cheers and energy made me feel like I was exactly where I was meant to be. It gave me a sense of belonging and motivation to give my best for the team.”
For Noxolo, football has always been about more than just playing; it is about making a difference, something she is eager to do in her first season at Sundowns.

“I want to make sure I am valuable to the team and work hard to achieve our goals for the season. Whether it is contributing on the field with goals or assists, or supporting my teammates, I want to play a role in helping us succeed and build a strong foundation for the future.”

When asked about her footballing inspirations, Noxolo’s answers reflect her humble roots and passion. “My childhood hero is my twin sister, Sinoxolo. And of course, Ronaldinho—his skills on the field always amazed me.”

🌟 FUN FACTS ABOUT NOXOLO CESANE

Childhood Hero:

Sinoxolo who is my twin sister. She was my first inspiration and always encouraged me to push harder.

Favourite Food:

Umphokoqo (crumbly pap and amasi) —there is nothing like the comfort of home-cooked meals. I also love fruits.

Music Preferences:

Old-school R&B, Gqom and Reggae. Music always keeps me in a positive space.

Hobbies:

I love watching cricket when I get the chance, but playing football is always my top priority.

Favourite Movie:

I do not have a favourite, but I am always watching movies. I love discovering new ones!

Pet Preference:

Not really into pets—my focus is on football right now.

Fondest Memory:

Watching my cousin, Lungile Mayekiso, play on the streets as a child—it inspired me to join the game.

Isabella Ludwig: The Playmaker with a Global Vision

Isabella Ludwig’s journey to Sundowns has been one of ambition, vision and a relentless love for football.

“I honestly cannot remember a time before football. It was not just a hobby—it has always been part of who I am.. Whether it was playing in the backyard or watching games with my family, the love for football has always been there.”
Isabella joined the Chloorkop-based side from the University of Pretoria and her debut for Banyana Ba Style was nothing short of a fairytale, scoring a goal in her very first match against the University of Cape Town.

“It felt incredible. I could not have asked for a better start. Wearing the Sundowns jersey is such an honor; it comes with pride and responsibility. From the moment I stepped onto the pitch, I felt the energy, the history and the expectations. Scoring on my debut made it all the more special and I am excited to keep growing and contributing to this amazing team.”

Since then, Ludwig has become a key contributor, bagging four goals in her first five matches, including a memorable brace in the emphatic 8–0 win over Royal AM.

But her impact has not been limited to Club football. The 22-year-old midfielder was a fan favorite during the 2024 COSAFA Cup Championship, where her composure in midfield and string of intelligent passes caught national attention. Ludwig made her senior national team debut under Coach Desiree Ellis on 22 October 2024 against Namibia, going on to become Player of the Tournament—a major highlight in her young but promising international career.

She now joins Sundowns Ladies as they chase an unprecedented sixth consecutive Hollywoodbets Super League title, bringing both domestic and international pedigree to an already experienced and well-balanced squad. Her approach to the game also reflects a unique playing style—an elegant blend of creativity, intelligence and unyielding ambition.

“I want to continue contributing as much as I can for the Club this season and moving forward, whether that is through goals, assists, or simply doing my role well on the field. Personally, my goal is to become a consistent starter in the team, help us win trophies and continue growing both technically and mentally.”

🌟 FUN FACTS ABOUT ISABELLA LUDWIG

Childhood Hero:

Mesut Özil, I admire his creativity and vision.

Favourite Food:

Definitely pasta, especially a good creamy Chicken Alfredo. It is my go-to comfort food.

Music Preferences:

I love R&B and Afrobeats—it depends on my mood, but those two are always on my playlist.

Hobbies:

I enjoy watching tennis and athletics, especially big tournaments like Wimbledon and the Olympics. I also love swimming when I get the chance—it is my way of relaxing outside of football.

Favourite Movie:

I last watched Avatar: The Way of Water—It is my favourite movie.

Pet Preference:

Dogs, for sure! I have always been a dog lover—they are loyal, playful and honestly the best companions.

As the season progresses, Yellow Nation supporters can expect even more from Noxolo Cesane’s dynamism and Isabella Ludwig’s creative flair. Both players are committed to playing their part in Sundowns’ pursuit of continued dominance, eager to help the team reach new heights and build on the Club’s legacy of excellence. The future is bright for both and Yellow Nation has plenty to look forward to from these two rising stars.

Beating the Best: Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s Strike Steals the Spotlight

Beating the Best: Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s Strike Steals the Spotlight

I Did It for the Badge

A Season of Ups and Downs, A Season of Lessons

Trusted and Triumphant: Keanu Cupido’s Debut Season Brilliance

Mamelodi Sundowns Magazine

Categories

Social Footprints