Debutants Eyeing Further Success Following Strong First Season at Chloorkop
Author: John AliuIt was an eventful year for the debutant trio of Nthabiseng Majiya, Cimone Sauls and Asanda Hadebe. Having joined Sundowns Ladies at the beginning of the season, they were not overwhelmed by the challenges of stepping up to a championship-winning team but instead displayed confidence, determination and exceptional skill whenever called upon.Remarkably, all three played a pivotal role as Banyana Ba Style clinched their fifth straight Hollywoodbets Super League title.
Majiya, who joined from Richmond United, etched her name into the headlines immediately by finding the back of the net in her debut start for the Brazilians during their 4-0 win over Royal AM in the league opener. A smashing brace followed in her second game against TS Galaxy Queens, and she never looked back, finishing the season with an impressive tally of 14 goals.

The Sundowns forward reflected on her swift adjustment and impactful debut season at Chloorkop.

“Adjusting was easy because I already knew some of my teammates from the national team. They were incredibly supportive both on and off the pitch, helping me understand the team’s playing style and culture. The coaches have also been instrumental in guiding me and pushing me to perform at my best. It is a privilege to be part of such a professional and successful club.”
Majiya’s inspiring season saw her nominated for the Young Player of the Year at the 2024 CAF Awards.
Quickfire Quiz1. The most memorable moment of your first season
Scoring my first goal for Sundowns Ladies.2. Which teammate do you look up to the most
Myself, but also my friends in the team, Cimone and Asanda.3. What’s your personal goal for the upcoming season
To become better than in previous seasons.Youngster Asanda Hadebe demonstrated her talent on both ends of the pitch throughout the season. The versatile player played a key role in a defence that boasted the best record in the league, conceding only 12 goals.

On the attacking front, the Hammarsdale-born defender opened her goal account in the 5-0 win over Richmond United. She went on to score in games against City Lads, the University of Pretoria and First Touch, finishing with four goals for the campaign.

Asanda believes her growth this season is a testament to the team’s support and her determination.

“It has been a very eventful journey. I have learned so much from my teammates and the technical team. They taught me what real teamwork means. I am super grateful for the opportunity to represent such an amazing club. The guidance and encouragement I have received have helped me improve my game and grow as a player.”
Quickfire Quiz1. Most memorable moment of your first season
Going to the CAF Women’s Champions League. Even though we did not win, it was a goal of mine to get there.2. Which teammate do you look up to the most
Kholosa Biyana.3. What is your personal goal for the upcoming season
To achieve better statistics than last season, both in goals and overall performance.Cimone Sauls also delivered stalwart performances as a key player in both defence and midfield. The Johannesburg-born player, known for her versatility and composure, bagged her first goal in Sundowns Ladies’ colors during the third round of the Hollywoodbets Super League in a 2-0 win over UJ FC.

She reflected on her journey, saying: “Obviously, I had to adjust as quickly as possible to the playing style and the way things are done at Sundowns. I knew that fitting into the team and making an impact would be very important. It was not easy at first, but it was something that had to be done. I learned a lot from my teammates during training sessions as well as in games, which helped me adapt more quickly.”

Sauls credited the supportive environment at the club for helping her thrive. “The senior players and coaching staff have been amazing, always offering guidance and encouragement. They made me feel like part of the family from the very beginning. That support gave me the confidence to push myself and deliver my best on the pitch.”
Quickfire Quiz1. Most memorable moment of your first season
Scoring my first goal.2. Which teammate do you look up to the most
Lebogang Ramalepe.3. What is your personal goal for the upcoming season
Scoring and assisting more goals.Kudos to last season’s debutants for a job well done during their first season at Sundowns Ladies!!!