Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies central midfielder Chuene Morifi says his side “were nervous” in the opening stage of their Group B CAF Women’s Champions League opener against Bayelsa Queens on Monday night.
Banyana Ba Style secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Nigerian side at Stade de Marrakech stadium.
Lelona Daweti’s brace was enough to hand holders maximum points and she was named the Player of the Match following her stellar performance on the day.
Meanwhile, Mary-Magdalene Anjor scored the consolation goal for the debutants Bayelsa Queens.
As a result, the red-hot Brazilians are top of Group B with 3 points, equal on points with second-placed TP Mazembe, who defeated Wadi Degla of Egypt 1-0 last night.
Morifi reckons that it was a very physical game but she is happy that they managed to grab the valuable three points in their first game.
She further stated that there is room for improvement going into their next game.
MORIFI SPEAKS…
“This was a very tough game for us because Queens are a top side in Nigeria who possess several players from the national team,” she told the media.
“Things were a bit difficult for us in the early period, we were a bit nervous but we managed to settle in and take control of the game.
“We converted our chances when they came, and we are pleased with the outcome of the fixture. We are eagerly looking forward to the next game.”
LELONA DAWETI ON HER STELLAR PERFORMANCE…
Daweti, who was the heroine of the day and stole the spotlight added: “I am very happy with the way we played against our opponents. Our plan was to dominate possession and finish off our chances and we did just that.
“Scoring twice makes me happy, but my overall excitement lies in the fact that we grabbed maximum points. What a perfect way to start the group.”
Masandawana shot-stopper Andile Dlamini also expressed her delight with how they managed the game: “Getting maximum points in the first game is always a big boost and we achieved that.
“Our opponents proved very tough in key areas, and we are happy with the way we kept our composure throughout the game. Kudos to everyone.”
The Hollywoodbets Super League champions will take on Egypt’s Wadi Degla on Thursday, 3 November at Stade de Marrakech stadium.
