Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies coach Godfrey Sapula has tipped debutant Zesco Ndola Girls of Zambia to be a challenger for the single COSAFA slot qualification to the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League.

Speaking ahead of the qualifiers, Sapula noted that Zambia’s track record, highlighted by Green Buffaloes’ past performances, makes Zesco a team to watch.

“It is not an easy group for us, and we all know that teams from the likes of Zambia have the possibility of going all the way,” Sapula told SABC Sport.

Zesco Ndola Girls booked their place in this year’s competition after winning the Zambia Women’s Super League.

They were drawn in Group A alongside two-time Champions League winners Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies, Ntopwa FC of Malawi, and Namibia’s Beauties FC.

Reflecting on his own side’s ambitions, “We have won this competition in the past and have a good chance of retaining our title.” 

He warned that “football is still an unpredictable game,” despite playing at home and enjoying home support.

Zesco Ndola Girls will open their campaign against Namibian champions Beauties FC on August 22.

The 2025 COSAFA CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers will run from 22–30 August in Johannesburg, South Africa.