Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns got their HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Women’s Champions League campaign off to the perfect start with an 8-1 victory over Costa do Sol from Mozambique at the Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium in Durban on Sunday.

Sundowns, who are also African champions, ran riot to lead 5-0 at halftime and continued their scoring into the second period as they laid down an early marker in Group A.

Melinda Kgadiete and Andisiwe Mgcoyi scored two goals each to set Sundowns on their way, before Zanele Nhlapho (penalty), Miche Minnies and Rhoda Mulaudzi all also netted to go with an unfortunate own goal for Costa do Sol’s Nadia Farranguana.

There was some joy for the visitors, who were making their debut in the competition, as Cidalia Cuta netted from the penalty-spot with 13 minutes remaining, but it was too little, too late.

Green Buffaloes from Zambia eased to a 4-0 victory over Young Buffaloes from Eswatini in their Group B opener that was played at the same venue.

The Zambians led 2-0 at the break after goals from Copper Queens internationals Ireen Lungu and Hellen Chanda.

The result was sealed midway through the second period as Anita Mulenga added a third, scoring from long-range with a dipping shot, before Lungu got another late on.

It leaves both Sundowns and Green Buffaloes in charge of their pools, with only the top team to advance to the final and stand a chance of qualifying for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Champions League that will be played in Morocco later this year.

The second-placed teams in each pool will contest the bronze medal match. Both that game and the final will be played on Saturday.

The action continues in Tuesday with the second round of pool fixtures as 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.

Soka25east.com