Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies head coach, Jerry Tshabalala, is confident that his team can still make it to the CAF Women’s Champions League semifinals, despite their surprising loss in the opening match. The defending champions were beaten 1-0 by debutants FC Masar in their Group B opener, marking the first time Sundowns lost at this stage of the tournament since its inception.
Currently sitting in third place in the group without any points, Sundowns trail Masar, who occupy second place due to a better goal difference over Edo Queens, who are in first. Tshabalala remained determined after the defeat, emphasizing that the two-time African champions must demonstrate their quality in the upcoming matches to secure qualification for the knockout stage.
“We need to regroup, go back to the drawing board, and give our best in the remaining two games,” said Tshabalala. “We still have a chance to turn things around, and it’s crucial for us to show the character that we’re the defending champions. We must come back strong, win the next two games, and reach the semifinals.” Sundowns’ next challenge is against CBE FC on Wednesday in Casablanca.
