Two teams from COSAFA region to appear at CAF Champions League finals
Following media queries, COSAFA would like to clarify the situation around qualification for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco later this year.
Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies, as continental champions, will automatically qualify for the finals in Morocco, along with the winner of the HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women’s Champions League.
Should Sundowns successfully retain their COSAFA regional title, then the runner-up in Saturday’s final will also qualify for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Champions League.
“We will have two teams at the (continental) championship,” says Brenda Kunda, chairperson of the COSAFA Women’s Committee and COSAFA Executive Committee member.
“Sundowns will be defending championships, and whichever side is the best in this competition, or the best runner-up, will get to the finals in Morocco.
“There are so many developments in this region, we are doing so well in all facets, from playing to refereeing and administration. That is reflected in the rise in standard on the field.”
Sundowns will be favourites to retain their title in Durban given their pedigree and status as continental championships, but the race to travel to Morocco with them is very much on.
The top team in each of the two groups at the COSAFA Women’s Champions League will advance to Saturday’s final, with one round of matches played so far.
Sundowns defeated Costa so Sol 8-1 in Group A on Sunday, while Green Buffaloes beat Young Buffaloes 4-0 in Group B.
The action continues on Tuesday, where both pools could be decided, as well as the two qualifiers for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Champions League.
Sundowns take on Double Action Ladies from Botswana, a team they beat 6-0 in last season’s competition.
But Double Action will have learnt from that disappointment and have a number of players from the successful Botswana national team in their squad.
That game is at 12h00 CAT at the Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium and once again tickets are FREE. They will be available for collection at the venue from three hours before kick-off.
Group B continues with a clash between Comoros debutantes Olympique de Moroni and Green Buffaloes (15h30), where the latter can seal their place in the final with a win.