Sundowns Ladies Deliver Late Drama to Claim First CAF Champions League Victory Against Lekie

SOUTH AFRICAN FOOTBALL NEWS | 4 NOVEMBER 2026

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies have finally registered their first victory in this season's CAF Women's Champions League after producing a dramatic 2-1 win over Cameroonian opponents Lekie Football Girls on Wednesday afternoon.

The South African champions collected maximum points in their Group A encounter at the Suez Canal Stadium in Egypt, giving their continental campaign a much-needed boost as they continue their pursuit of another African crown.

Having entered the competition with high expectations, Sundowns were under pressure to deliver a positive result and demonstrate why they remain one of the strongest teams in women's football on the continent.

Wednesday's encounter proved challenging, but the Brazilians showed determination and attacking quality to secure all three points.

Sundowns made their intentions clear early in the match, looking to take control and put their opponents under pressure. Their persistence eventually paid off in the 42nd minute when Refilwe Tholakele found the back of the net to give the South Africans a deserved 1-0 advantage.

The goal provided Sundowns with an important breakthrough before the half-time interval and placed them in a strong position heading into the second half.

However, Lekie Football Girls were not prepared to surrender easily. The Cameroonian side increased their attacking efforts after the restart and continued searching for an equaliser.

Their persistence eventually paid off in the 84th minute when substitute Shalom Makoma levelled matters, setting up a tense finish.

Just when it appeared that Sundowns would have to settle for a draw, the South Africans found a late breakthrough.

An unfortunate own goal by Lekie's Yvana Yakana Makana in the 88th minute handed Sundowns a dramatic 2-1 victory, sparking celebrations among the South African representatives.

The result represents an important turning point for Sundowns, who are determined to reclaim the continental title after previously winning the competition in 2021 and 2023.

The victory also strengthens their position in Group A as they look to secure qualification for the semi-finals.

With the tournament becoming increasingly competitive, every point will be crucial in determining which teams advance to the knockout stages.

For Sundowns, the immediate priority will be maintaining this momentum and producing another convincing performance in their remaining group fixtures.

The Brazilians have now reminded their continental rivals that they remain serious contenders for the CAF Women's Champions League trophy.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2117983099187327062