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New faces join Sundowns Ladies ahead of season

Wendy Shongwe and Gugu Dhlamini have been brought in from Tuks and UJ as Sundowns Ladies prepare for another trophy chase in 2026.

Two new players have been welcomed into the Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies setup as the club continues to build toward the season.

The reigning Hollywoodbets Super League champions have confirmed the signings of forward Wendy Shongwe from the University of Pretoria Ladies and Gugu Dhlamini from the University of Johannesburg Ladies. This will strengthen their squad ahead of what is expected to be a busy year across several competitions.

Shongwe said joining Sundowns Ladies is a major step in her career and one she has been hoping for.

“It feels extremely exciting to officially join the Masandawana family. I have always admired the club, so to be considered and trusted with a place in this team is a huge compliment. From the moment the opportunity came up, I saw it as a massive chance for me to grow and develop as a player.”

She said she was drawn to the standards and expectations that have helped Sundowns Ladies establish themselves as one of the most dominant sides in women’s football and believes the environment will push her to improve.

“Sundowns Ladies have a strong track record of success, but beyond that, there is a clear expectation that every player pushes themselves every day. I know being in this environment will challenge me and help me reach another level,” stated Shongwe.

The new signing added that she is confident she can contribute through her speed, intensity and willingness to put the team first, while also looking forward to learning from the experienced players already in the squad.

“I am excited to play alongside players like Andile Dlamini, Noxolo Cesane, Bambanani Mbane, and Kholosa Biyana because of their experience and quality. For me, success this season would be adapting quickly, making a real impact, helping the team win trophies, performing well in the CAF Women’s Champions League and putting myself back in contention for the national team,” she said.

Dhlamini also expressed excitement about the move, describing it as a personal dream fulfilled as she begins a new chapter at Chloorkop, which hosts Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club training grounds.

“Joining Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies is truly a dream come true. It is a massive club with a rich history, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity. When I heard about the move, I honestly felt that when the time is right, God really does make things happen,” she said.

She noted that the club’s commitment to women’s football, as well as its culture of winning and development, played a major role in her decision to sign for Sundowns.

“What attracted me most was the club’s commitment to developing women’s football and their winning mentality. This is a team that pushes each other to be the best and genuinely invests in players and their talents. That kind of environment is exactly what I want to be part of.”

Dhlamini added that she is looking forward to contributing on the pitch and helping the team maintain its dominance, while also relishing the chance to share the field with players she has admired for years.

With preparations now underway for the new season, Sundowns Ladies have signalled their intent to remain at the top of the local game while pushing for further progress in continental competition.

The addition of Shongwe and Dhlamini is expected to add depth and fresh energy to an already experienced squad as the champions set their sights on more silverware this year.

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Tshiamo Boikhutso

Tshiamo is a junior journalist focusing on community news in Pretoria, particularly in the Centurion area. Tshiamo writes for the Centurion Rekord as well as Rekord’s online platforms.
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