Sundowns Ladies Lead the Way in South Africa’s 2025 WAFCON Squad

Author: John Aliu

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies are the most represented Club in the Banyana Banyana squad for the 2025 African Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON), with eight players selected to fly the South African flag. South Africa, who are pitted in Group B alongside Ghana, Tanzania and Mali, has qualified for the quarter finals.

The Banyana Ba Style players include Andile Dlamini, Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Bambanani Mbane, Karabo Dhlamini, Nonhlanhla Mthandi, Noxolo Cesane and Nthabiseng Majiya—all of whom bring a winning mentality, with most having played a crucial role in Banyana Banyana’s historic first AWCON title in 2022.

In that tournament, Andile stood out as the Continent’s best shot-stopper, earning the Best Goalkeeper award and a spot in the Team of the Tournament. Her commanding performances and vocal leadership remain a vital asset for the national team. Andile has kept two clean sheets in the two matches that she featured in against Ghana and Mali.

Alongside her, central defender Bambanani “Juice” Mbane was also named in the 2022 Team of the Tournament. Her composure, tactical awareness and ability to organize the backline will again be crucial as South Africa aims to defend their crown. In the opening match, against Ghana, Bambanani was awarded Woman of the Match for her stellar performance and scored in the match against Tanzania.
For veteran right-back Lebohang Ramalepe, experience meets inspiration.

“What matters most is how we prepare going into the tournament. That is when confidence is built and pressure becomes manageable. We are taking it one game at a time and yes—our eyes are on getting past the group stage and going all the way. Every session counts and being open to learning every day is what keeps me sharp. No dream is invalid—work hard, love what you do and it will show.” Lebohang got her name on the scoresheet when Banyana trashed Mali in a 4-0 thriller.

Defender Karabo Dhlamini brings quiet consistency and growth, embracing her role in a competitive defensive setup.

“It is a privilege to represent both Sundowns and the national team. I have improved a lot, especially defensively and I always try to match intensity across all phases of the game. The competition at the back is tough, but that is what makes us better—everyone brings something unique. I stay focused by blocking out negativity and keeping my energy on what matters.”

Another Sundowns star set to feature at the prestigious tournament is goalkeeper Sedilame Bosija, who will be representing the Botswana women’s national team. Botswana is in Group B alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Algeria and notably reached the quarterfinals in the last edition of the tournament. The Sundowns goalie is eager to make her mark on the Continental stage once again.

“I am delighted to be part of the team yet again, as this is one of the biggest stages a player can reach on the Continent. The experience I have gained from recent inter-club competitions with Sundowns Ladies has taught me a great deal about handling pressure. My goal is to build on our performance from the previous WAFCON.. This is a chance to shine and I am giving it my all—because you never know who is watching.”

The Mamelodi Sundowns continue to have a successful tournament in Morocco and are continuing to make a mark.

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Mamelodi Sundowns Magazine

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