Isabella Ludwig Strike Seals Victory as Sundowns Ladies Maintain Perfect Defensive Record

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies continued their dominant start to the 2025 Hollywoodbets Super League season with a dominant 1–0 victory over the University of Fort Hare at TUT Stadium on Sunday morning. The win keeps the defending Champions unbeaten and remarkably still yet to concede a goal this campaign.

Isabella Ludwig was the match-winner, calmly slotting home in the 62nd minute to seal three points for Banyana Ba Style. The University of Fort Hare put up a strong defensive display and challenged Sundowns throughout, but the Brazilians’ quality and persistence ultimately shone through.

Ludwig, who has now scored four goals this season, reflected on the team’s determination to get the job done despite missed opportunities:

“It was a hard-fought game from start to finish. We knew it was not going to be easy, and the University of Fort Hare challenged us, especially in the first half. I honestly feel we could have scored more goals — we created some good chances but just lacked that final touch at times. What made the difference today was our perseverance. We worked hard for each other, stayed composed, and stuck to the game plan. We implemented everything we had practiced throughout the week, and that helped us maintain our structure under pressure.”

At the back, the reigning Champions were once again rock-solid, with experienced defender Bambanani Mbane playing a key role in marshaling the defense and ensuring the team’s seventh clean sheet in as many matches this season.

“It was a very tough game, physically and mentally. They came at us with intensity and tried to disrupt our rhythm, but we stayed organized at the back. Keeping the clean sheet today means a lot, especially because the match was so tight. As defenders, we take great pride in protecting our goal, and the fact that we have not conceded all season is something we work extremely hard for in training. Every player—from the forwards pressing high to the goalkeeper—contributes to that defensive effort.”

Ludwig has now moved to four goals this season, joining Nthabiseng Majiya and Boitumelo Rabale at the top of Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies’ scoring chart. Close behind is Nonhlanhla Mthandi with three goals. The Brazilians have also seen valuable contributions from across the squad, with Melinda Kgadiete, Lehlogonolo Mashigo, Refilwe Tholakele, and Tiisetso Makhubela each finding the back of the net once.

Up next for Sundowns Ladies is a clash against First Touch at Baroka Village on Saturday, 10 May 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.

Mamelodi Sundowns