The University of the Western Cape (UWC) women’s soccer team is set to break new ground as the first university team from South Africa to participate in the CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA Qualifiers. This historic event will take place in Malawi from August 16th to 24th, 2024, where UWC will compete against top teams from the Southern African region.

UWC Second Place Finish Earns Qualification

UWC makes history after their impressive second-place finish in the 2023 Hollywoodbets Super League that paved the way for this opportunity. With Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies securing automatic qualification as defending champions, UWC was nominated by the South African Football Association (SAFA) to represent the country in the qualifiers.

Team Eager to Showcase Talent

The UWC women’s football team is brimming with excitement and determination as they prepare to face this international challenge. They are eager to demonstrate their skills and compete against the best teams in the region. The players have been diligently training, focusing on fitness, tactics, and teamwork to ensure they are ready for the tournament. However, they are also aware of the tough challenge that lies ahead. The defending champion, Sundowns Ladies, and other regional powerhouses will be formidable opponents.

Coach’s Confidence in Team’s Potential

UWC coach Thinasonke Mbuli expressed pride in the team’s selection and emphasized the importance of this opportunity for the players to gain valuable experience and exposure at the international level. He is confident in their ability to make South Africa proud and compete with the utmost dedication.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has also expressed its full support for the UWC team. SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao emphasized the importance of this opportunity for the players’ growth and development. “We wish UWC the best of luck in their participation in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA qualifiers in Malawi next month,” she said. “It will be a great platform for them to show their true potential.”

Valuable Learning Experience

The COSAFA qualifiers will serve as a crucial learning experience for the UWC team. It will expose them to different playing styles and tactics employed by teams from other countries, allowing them to test their skills against strong opponents and develop their game further. The tournament will also be a platform for the players to build confidence on a larger stage.

Milestone for Women’s Soccer in South Africa

UWC’s participation in the qualifiers signifies a significant milestone for women’s soccer in South Africa. It underscores the growing talent pool and increasing opportunities for female players to pursue their dreams of playing at the highest level. The team’s performance will be closely watched by fans and experts, who are keen to witness their progress in the tournament.

UWC Makes History: Carrying the Nation’s Hopes

As UWC embarks on this historic journey, they carry the hopes and aspirations of not only their university but also the entire South African soccer community. Their performance in the COSAFA qualifiers will be a testament to the growth and development of women’s soccer in the country and will hopefully inspire future generations of female players.