The University of the Western Cape (UWC) coach Thinasonke Mbuli says they are clearly doing something right as they bid farewell to their captain Amogelang Motau, who has left the club.
The Limpopo-born midfielder played her last match for the Blues in the 2-0 defeat to the 2024 Hollywoodbets Super League champions, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies on 8 December last year.
“Amo is a leader, a hard worker and she deserves what is coming her way. I wish her nothing but the best in her new journey. She gave us everything we needed and I am not surprised this is happening to her,” said Mbuli.
“This is the third player to leave us months and get a professional contract abroad in just one season and this makes me so emotional because it indicates we are doing something right. I am super proud of Amo.”
Motau is believed to have been scooped up by a Mexican team with an announcement imminent.
She played a pivotal role instrumental in UWC’s remarkable success in the 2024 season – helping the team to second position on the league table, won the CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA qualifier, which saw them make history by becoming the first university club to play in the CAF Women’s Champions League proper. She has also been a regular at Banyana Banyana.
“I told the players this week that football is very rewarding if you are patient. For example, Amo received an offer in Europe and we felt it was not good enough, but a few days after we turned it down, this new one came and we knew it was the right one. As an institution, we have said to the players if a solid offer comes we will not stand in their way. I wish her all the best and I know she will shine where she is going,” added Mbuli.
Motau’s departure comes after that of vice-captain Bongeka Gamede and Sinoxolo Cesane, who moved to Denmark and Saudi Arabia respectively.
In a moving social media post, UWC also sent a farewell message to Motau who has already flown abroad.
“Cappy, Amogelang Motau you owe us NOTHING! Thank you for a decade of dedication, passion, and countless victories. Your legacy will forever shine in our hearts—go chase your dreams,” said the post.
UWC will be hoping to replicate a remarkable 2024 season they had, but will need to reinforce their team.
“The latest departure opens up another slot for someone to step up, hence we went searching for new personnel to beef up the squad, and we will announce when the time is right,” concluded Mbuli.
Motau was a nominee in the CAF Interclub Player of the Year awards category.
By Matlhomola Morake
