Sundowns Ladies Secure Dramatic Late Win In Egypt As They Target Historic Third CAF Champions League Crown

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies have revived their 2026 CAF Women's Champions League campaign after recording a dramatic 2-1 victory over Cameroonian outfit Lekie Football Girls in Ismailia, Egypt, on Wednesday.

The South African champions displayed determination and fighting spirit to claim their first victory of the tournament, with a late own goal proving decisive in an exciting Group A clash played at the Suez Canal Stadium.

The result represents an important improvement for Sundowns following their opening-day goalless draw against Egyptian side FC Masar.

Head coach Godfrey Sapula made three adjustments to his starting eleven, introducing Asanda Hadebe, Amanda Mthandi and Nthabiseng Majiya as the team looked to deliver a stronger attacking display.

Sundowns made a positive start and came close to taking the lead within the opening five minutes when Ronnel Donnelly's effort struck the post after she capitalised on a defensive mistake by Lekie.

The Cameroonian side also had the ball in the net in the eighth minute through experienced striker Ajara Nchout, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

The Brazilians continued searching for the opening goal, although Lekie remained disciplined defensively and made life difficult for their opponents.

Shortly before the interval, Bambanani Mbane appeared to have put Sundowns ahead with a header from a delivery by Majiya. However, the referee disallowed the effort for offside.

The South Africans eventually broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute. Donnelly provided an excellent assist for Botswana international Refilwe Tholakele, who confidently converted to give Sundowns a deserved 1-0 lead.

After the restart, Sundowns maintained their attacking pressure, with Donnelly and Majiya both creating opportunities to increase their team's advantage.

However, Lekie refused to give up and found their way back into the contest in the 84th minute. Substitute Shalom Makoma restored parity after benefiting from an opportunity created by Nchout, making it 1-1.

Just when it appeared Sundowns might have to settle for another draw, the South African champions produced a late response.

In the 88th minute, Karabo Dlamini sent a dangerous free-kick into the penalty area, putting pressure on the Lekie defence. Defender Yvana Yakana Makana inadvertently directed the ball into her own net, handing Sundowns a crucial late advantage.

The own goal proved to be the difference as the Brazilians successfully protected their lead to secure an important 2-1 victory.

The win gives Sundowns four points from their first two Group A matches, following their opening draw against FC Masar.

The two-time CAF Women's Champions League winners have now strengthened their chances of progressing to the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of another continental crown.

Their next challenge will be against Moroccan club FUS Rabat on Saturday, November 7. A positive result in that encounter could confirm their qualification for the knockout stages and move them closer to another appearance in the final.

Sundowns Ladies previously lifted the CAF Women's Champions League trophy in 2021 and 2023. The South African giants are now hoping to make history by securing their third continental title.

The 2026 edition of the competition will conclude on November 15 in Egypt, with the eventual winners also earning the opportunity to represent Africa in the FIFA Women's Champions Cup pathway.

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