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Mbuli believes in UWC to rise to the occasion ahead of Sundowns clash

University of the Western Cape (UWC) mentor Thinasonke Mbuli has opened up to Basadi In Action about the departure of key player Sibulele Holweni and her team's preparations for a crucial Hollywoodbets Super League Super Era stream encounter against Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies.


UWC will face the high-flying Banyana Ba Style on Saturday afternoon at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00. Hollywoodbets Super League Fixtures

The encounter presents a significant test for the Western Cape outfit, who will be looking to challenge a Sundowns side that is yet to concede a goal this season. However, Mbuli, who is affectionately known as "The Bull" within her football circles, remains confident in her team's ability to rise to the occasion and find a way past the reigning champions' stubborn defence.

Preparing for high-stakes encounters is part of what drives the UWC mentor, who understands the demands that come with facing a team of Sundowns' calibre. With both sides competing for supremacy in the Super Era stream, Saturday's clash promises to be an important test of UWC's ambitions and ability to compete against the country's dominant force in women's football. 

“We are expecting a tough match. Mamelodi Sundowns is doing very well. We have been analysing them, and the technical team is working hard to determine how we will approach the game.” Said Mbuli. 

Meanwhile, Holweni's departure has raised questions about the potential impact on UWC's squad as the season enters a crucial phase. Mbuli clears the air and elaborates more on the club's plans and future goals, saying: 

"I think our vision as a club is clear. We have a strong, proven track record of developing talent to a level where our student-athletes and players can get signed and play professional football. Sibulele’s departure is long overdue. We have been blessed with talented and ambitious players who want to pursue professional football abroad. Our duty is to help them grow and achieve their dreams."

Despite losing a key figure in her team, Mbuli is not overly concerned about the void left by the departing player. The UWC mentor is confident that her squad has the depth and quality to fill the gap without significant disruption to the team's plans.

As UWC prepare for one of their biggest challenges of the season, Mbuli will be hoping her players translate their preparations into a strong performance against a Masandawana side that has set the standard in the Hollywoodbets Super League. 

The former Banyana Banyana defender also added and revealed, "We have signed young players this season as part of our rebuilding plan. We will continue to release key players who deserve opportunities in the professional setup while bringing in young talent to keep the team competitive. However, that process won’t happen overnight.” Mbuli concluded.


Writer: Herold Lamola


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