SUNDOWNS
QUARTET TRIUMPHS
AT THE INAUGURAL COSAFA AWARDS © Muzi NtombelaAuthor: Erica MathyeAt the recent inaugural COSAFA Awards held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, Mamelodi Sundowns were the cream of the crop after walking away with four individual awards. The awards covered the period from January to December 2023.© Nokwanda ZondiCoach Rulani Mokwena was named ‘Coach of the Year’ after famously guiding his side to glory in the inaugural African Football League. Furthermore, the Soweto-born tactician won 45 games across all competitions in the year under review. The Sundowns coach gave credit to the players for the accolade.
“I’m humbled and extremely privileged. Without the support of the Football Club and the belief that they’ve had in me, it wouldn’t have been possible to be here. It’s also clear that without the incredible football players I have the honor to lead and coach, this wouldn’t be possible either. And of course, I wouldn’t be here without God's grace,” he said.

“I’ve always believed that individual awards are simply a reflection of the combined contributions and hard work of everyone involved, especially the players. After all, football belongs to them on the pitch. While I may be the one standing here receiving this award, it’s truly a testament to their dedication and effort,” the coach continued.
© Nokwanda ZondiGoalkeepers Andile Dlamini and Ronwen Williams were named COSAFA Goalkeeper of the Year for their respective teams. Dlamini won with the Ladies' team after claiming Goalkeeper of the Tournament in both the COSAFA Women’s Champions League and CAF Women’s Champions League. Williams, on the other hand, secured Goalkeeper of the Tournament in the African Football League and Goalkeeper of the Season in the top flight for the 2022/23 season.
© Nokwanda Zondi“It’s a great honor, and I’m grateful for the recognition; it means a lot to me. The award is simply a testament to the support I have received from my loved ones, coaches, and teammates. It has been a good first season at Mamelodi Sundowns for me; it could have been better, but the injuries got in the way. Otherwise, it has been good,” Maseko stated.
Once again, congratulations to the quartet for the accolades which they deservedly earned!!