The New Wave: Rising Talents Lighting Up Sundowns Ladies
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Author: John AliuWhile 2025 has been another golden year for Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies, marked by silverware, milestones and unmatched dominance, it has also been a year that saw several rising stars from the Club’s thriving youth system earn their place in the first team.Having consistently competed and excelled in various grassroots tournaments, Munahse Mugwara, Katleho Malebana and Jabulile Mbatha have emerged as standout talents who have seamlessly transitioned from the development ranks to the senior stage — embodying the Club’s enduring philosophy of hard work, discipline and excellence.

Munahse Mugwara
For 16-year-old Munahse Mugwara, her promotion felt like a dream unfolding faster than she could process.

“Honestly, I was shocked. Everything happened so suddenly that it did not even feel real. But deep down, I felt grateful and proud. To wear the Mamelodi Sundowns badge at senior level at such a young age is something I never imagined.”

Munahse announced her arrival dominantly, scoring her first-ever senior goal during the COSAFA Women’s Champions League qualifiers in a commanding 7–0 victory over Namibia’s Beauties FC. She followed it up with a fine finish in the 4–0 win against First Touch Ladies in the Hollywoodbets Super League — moments she describes as unforgettable milestones in her young career.

“I will never forget those goals. Scoring for the Sundowns Ladies team was a dream come true and it gave me the belief that I truly belong at this level. Every time I step onto the pitch, I just want to make the badge proud.”

What sets Mugwara apart is not just her skill, but her maturity. She carries herself with humility, always eager to learn from the legends around her.

“Coach Rhoda Mulaudzi, Kholosa Biyana, Andile Dlamini, Asa Rabalao and Nonhlanhla Mthandi have been like big sisters to me. They push me, guide me and remind me that talent means nothing without discipline. Their encouragement keeps me going every day.”
Quickfire Festive Corner with Munahse:
Favourite Christmas tradition:
“Waking up early for Church service!”
Festive must-have:
“Lasagna — I could eat it every day of the holidays!”
Message to Yellow Nation supporters:
“Merry Christmas to all our supporters! Stay safe, keep smiling and thank you for believing in us — the best is yet to come!”
2026 wish:
“To keep learning from my teammates and improving every match. I want to become a more complete player and make my family and the Yellow Nation proud.”
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Katleho Malebane
From Alberton FC to the Sundowns Development Academy, Katleho’s rise was built on quiet determination and fierce ambition. She trained with the boys, adapted to physical challenges and by 15, she was already on loan to Tuks Ladies, learning the hard lessons of senior football.

“That experience taught me how to think quicker, how to handle pressure and how to never back down. Every game made me stronger — mentally and emotionally.”
When she finally received the call to join the Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies first team, emotions ran high.

“I cried and laughed at the same time. It was one of those moments where everything you have worked for finally makes sense. I just kept thanking God and my family.”

Malebane seized her opportunity, getting on the scoresheet in the 6–0 win over Richmond United — a moment that showcased her confidence and composure in front of goal. She credits veteran Bambanani Mbane for helping her settle into life with the first team.

“Bamba is such a role model. She always checks in, gives me tips and tells me to be fearless. She shows me that being humble does not mean being quiet — it means working hard and leading by example.”

Interestingly, Katleho featured as one of the ball girls at the final of the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where South Africa lifted the trophy — an experience that planted the seed for her own footballing dreams.
Quickfire Festive Corner with Katleho Malebane:
Favourite holiday dish:
“Chakalaka and braai meat — always!”
Christmas vibe:
“Music, laughter and family — we celebrate life!. And my go-to song is “Merry Christmas” by Brenda Fassie — it brings back beautiful childhood memories.
2026 wish:
“To cement my place in the team and earn a national call-up — that is the dream that I am chasing.”
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Jabulile Mbatha
For Jabulile Mbatha, football runs through her veins. Her brothers, cousins and even neighbours played, making the game the heartbeat of her childhood.

“I was the only girl who joined them in the street matches. I never wanted to just watch — I wanted to play and prove that I belonged.”

That competitive spirit carried her into local tournaments, where her talent quickly stood out. After being spotted by a Sundowns scout, Jabulile joined the Development Team, a move that transformed her career. The day she got the call to join the first team was unforgettable.

“I screamed! My mom cried. It was such an emotional day. Playing for Mamelodi Sundowns was something I used to dream about — and now, it is my reality.”
She credits mentors Coach Rhoda, Andile Dlamini, and Kholosa Biyana for their belief in her.
“They keep me grounded. Coach Rhoda always says, ‘Consistency separates the good from the great,’ and that quote lives in my head. It is my daily motivation.”
Quickfire Festive Corner with Jabulile Mbatha:
Favourite festive food:
“Umphokoqo (crumbly maize meal porridge)— it’s home in a bowl!”
Christmas soundtrack:
“Gospel music — it fills me with peace.”
Message for Yellow Nation supporters:
“Spend time with family, keep believing and enter 2026 with faith. Big things are coming!”
2026 wish:
I would like to earn a national team call-up and play in the CAF Women’s Champions League. Those are my biggest goals. I know it will not be easy, but I am ready to fight for it.”
© BackpagePix
For the Yellow Nation supporters, 2025 has been a year to celebrate, but with Munahse Mugwara, Katleho Malebana and Jabulile Mbatha leading the way, 2026 promises even brighter moments, thrilling goals and a new generation ready to make more history.
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