Nsingizini Ladies face ‘Downs test in CAF

MBABANE – Eswatini champions Nsingizini Hotspurs have been handed a daunting assignment for their first-ever appearance at the CAF Women’s Champions League/COSAFA Qualifier Botswana 2026.

 The debutants face a formidable baptism of fire after being drawn in Group B alongside two-time continental champions Mamelodi Sundowns. The regional tournament, scheduled for August 20–29  in Gaborone, brings together Southern Africa’s premier women’s clubs, all battling for a single spot at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) finals later in the year.

Hotspurs’ introductory campaign could hardly be more challenging. Group B pits them against South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, who have won two continental titles and previously reached another final. Completing a competitive group are Mozambique’s Costa do Sol and Malawian side Silver Strikers, both of whom will be looking to capitalise on their own international ambitions. To reach the semi-finals, Hotspurs must secure a top-two finish in the group.

In Group A, hosts and defending champions Gaborone United Ladies headline a demanding pool featuring Zambia’s ZESCO Ndola Girls, Zimbabwe’s Herentals Queens and Lesotho Defence Force.

This sixth edition of the qualifiers marks Botswana as only the third host nation, following four editions in South Africa and one in Malawi. Across its history, the competition has welcomed 19 clubs from 10 countries, with regional powerhouses Mamelodi Sundowns, Green Buffaloes, University of the Western Cape and Gaborone United having all successfully advanced to the continental stage in previous years.

With last year’s tournament producing a record 63 goals in 15 matches, the stakes and standards remain immensely high. For Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs, their maiden voyage on the regional stage will be a true test of grit, quality and resilience against some of the continent’s finest teams.