331 quotes found
"“Personally, I feel honored to be with Milan for the second season. We’ve been working as a group and I know the efforts that the technical team has put in and the task that they have in the team. And I feel very blessed to be a part of Milan also in the second half of the season.”"
"“In my opinion, in the previous games that we lost, especially also in the Derby, they didn’t go our way. We need to also give credit to Inter as they are a good team and also we are also an equally good team. So when we played and played to win, it’s just unfortunate that the results didn’t go our way.”"
"“With the game against Empoli, is also going to be a difficult one. We know they are also a good team like any other team in the league. So it’s a good chance for us to redeem ourselves as a team and to focus on the positives that we are going out there to get”"
"“Training in Manchester, I realized that playing football is what I want to do. It was where I realized my dream of being a footballer. And when I moved to Australia, where I played for Canberra United, it was my first professional contract. And with that I got an eye opener on how it is to be a professional, how to behave and how it is to play at the highest level.”"
"“Playing at the San Siro has always been my dream, and I know it’s every footballer’s dream to play in such an iconic stadium. And despite the results that we got against Juventus, I think we played well as a team.""
"“And those memories will stay with us, despite the defeat. We always want to play in the best stadiums. We always want to play in the best countries, and given that opportunity by Milan, we’ll always be grateful.”"
"“After my football career, I’m hoping to give back to the community. I’m hoping to probe into young talents, and I want to use my experiences that I’ve got in football to change people’s lives.”"
"“We realised that we achieved a dream and we are also giving an opportunity to other youngsters to be able to dream because we realised that with perseverance, hard work and discipline, nothing is impossible.”"
"“The nickname ‘Fifi’ is cut from Refiloe. So instead of seeing the whole of ‘Refiloe’, we just take too the ‘Fi’ and make it ‘Fifi’, so it’s a short way of saying ‘Refiloe’.”"
"They call me the 'Breadwinner', so without the breadwinner there is no bread, I had to provide the bread for the nation."
"I will be able to do everything for my mother because I’m the one who’s taking care of her. I’m the breadwinner, so I will be doing everything for my mother."
"It really means a lot especially knowing that we were so close to going home but it really means a lot. It is an emotional one personally because it is my first World Cup. It is really an emotional one, I do not want to lie but it’s all God’s glory for me. It means I will be able to help my family."
"It runs in the family as my father used to play football, so I knew I was going to grow up to be a footballer. I was quite lucky with the support I had through my life."
"I started playing with boys in the streets, then a coach saw me to play in a girls’ team. I moved between clubs, until I came to Mameldi Sundowns only this year."
"It’s been long overdue. I’ve been playing football since I can remember and it’s beautiful to see this tournament happening. We thank CAF for taking this step, so now we can deliver and show our talents."
"As a team we want to win, and we believe in ourselves. This will happen by taking each team at a time."
"As an individual, I just want to help the team win."
"Some people say a striker does not do much, but if they play as a striker, they’ll know."
"Focus on your dream! Choose your circle! And don’t neglect your school! Just believe in yourself, you don’t need anyone."
"I believe that my role as a striker is crucial in contributing to the team’s success. Scoring goals not only boost our chances of winning matches but also motivates and energizes the entire team."
"I am fully aware that scoring goals requires hard work, dedication and seizing opportunities when they arise on the field."
"I am prepared to put in the necessary effort and take advantage of any scoring opportunities that come my way. Whether it is through my positioning, speed or technical skills, I will strive to make a significant impact in front of goal."
"It was a historic moment for South African football when Thembi Kgatlana scored our first goal in the tournament four years ago. It was a proud and memorable moment for the team and the entire nation. Seeing her make such an impact on the world stage inspired me and reminded me of the incredible opportunities that lie ahead in this year’s World Cup."
"Every day, every month and every season teams change, and it is going to be hard, but we have to fix ourselves instead of looking at other teams, and we have to work hard to achieve what we want. So far, we are doing well, we have frustrations here and there, like mistakes on the field and we have to fix those – it’s difficult but we are working hard,"
"We are more focused on what we need to be doing on the day when the Ghana game comes, and we are really working on that. We are focused on ourselves and not stressed about other teams, and we just need to make sure that we do (on the field) what we train"
"So many people look up to us because of where we come from."
"It is important that they know that one has to work really hard to get what you want. Honestly, success does not really fall from the sky. You need to wake up early."
"Gugulethu is like a community, like a school. You learn a lot from the people there. They are all parents to us. If you are able to take all the lessons from them then we can succeed. That is the weapon to achieve our goals."
"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"
"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."
"I feel we did very well as a team, especially with our build-up to the game. We worked hard in training to sharpen our combinations and it was fulfilling to see several of the ideas we practiced come to life today. It was an intense match, but we kept our focus from start to finish"
"The coaching team was very clear in their instructions, and we all played with purpose and confidence. We are growing in every match and this result shows what we can achieve when we stay united and disciplined."
"The game was eventful and everything we planned and prepared for throughout the week resulted in a good win for us. We are so happy with how we managed the game from the first whistle to the last"
"Our defensive structure was solid and we capitalized on their weaknesses at key moments. The communication between the backline, midfield and attack was excellent and that made it easier to control the tempo."
"One thing the general public does not know about me is that I work very hard behind the scenes; I even have a personal trainer. I train twice a day, with my club and then with the personal trainer. So, I put in a lot of practice, especially for my passing. What you see on the field is a result of that hard work and practice"
"I’m not a person who likes to become comfortable in one position – I want to constantly improve as a player. I never want to hear people say ‘Bambanani can’t play football anymore’. So, I need to always work hard, especially because age is also not on my side"
"I’m grateful for the support I was getting from my wife, family and team. That really helped me bounce back from that setback, even though it was not an easy journey"
"I will continue playing until I feel that I can’t do it anymore. Everything we do in life is about timing and I feel as though I can still continue playing for the national team. After all, everyone is entitled to their own decisions,"
"But I’m happy for the retired players. They raised the level of women’s football in general, not just at Banyana Banyana"
"I am also very happy with the clean sheet—it’s something we take pride in as a team. We are now looking forward to the next game with confidence and belief."
"It’s a huge responsibility because we have so many young ones in this team so we (the older players) have to motivate them and show them the ropes"
"But, it’s also not that difficult because we have been in this team for so many years, so we know what is expected from us, so we have to make sure that we keep the kids motivated to do better"
"[For the new players] it’s a matter of them adjusting to the game plan of the team so I believe that even with coach calling them, she saw something in them of which it will help boost the team"
"Soccer became my escape and comfort."
"Football teaches you how to behave on and off the field."
"As long as I keep going, nothing will stop me."
"Pressure is a privilege, and when our backs are against the wall, that is when we perform."
"I tell people I am a full-time worker and a part-time footballer. A lot of us have to take unpaid leave to play matches. But come game day you would never say we are not full-time players."
"The field wasn’t the greatest. The fact that they thought it was OK for us to play on it, was something we were not happy with. It was just about us being respected as athletes."
"What was beautiful was that we stood together and we knew what we were fighting for. We fought 23-strong. We knew if we stuck together no one could break us and that translated on to the field. Our bond is the strongest it’s ever been."
"We were so tired of being stepped on and not being heard."
"Like I said previously, I’ve worked hard to be where I am and I think my confidence grew and I show up every day and gave maximum effort."
"What has stood up for me the most is fighting for one another on the field even when I make a mistake my teammate is there to motivate me and that has kept me going and made me want to give my all."
"I started playing football when I was seven, mostly playing with boys at home."
"My flow of the game depends on the tempo."
"The positive energy and vibe that I bring into the team, by merely playing the drum, is very important to me."
"Football will speak for itself."
"I feel school is not for me. I quit last year, dedicating my life to football. I'm positive I'll have a successful career as a footballer."
"I decided to drop out because I wanted to spend more time playing football. So far, I have been able to focus on football the way I have always wished. I was an average learner."
"I think God only blessed me with football."
"Here you have to bring your A-game all the time or you will struggle."
"When the coach told me to go warm up I had butterflies in my stomach."
"As the kick-off approaches, my heart is racing but I am looking forward to the challenge."
"We want to show young girls that anything is possible with hard work, determination and a never-give-up attitude."
"I remember how challenging it was playing with boys in the streets. Although it was difficult, I had discovered my love for football and I was prepared to continue playing no matter the circumstances."
"But for me, this is what being limitless is all about, working hard to achieve your goals and putting no limits to your dreams."
"Being limitless has taught me to believe in myself more as I hope to inspire other up-and-coming footballers who look up to me. It doesn’t matter where you come from or your what your background is, just believe in your talent and work hard."
"I grew up in a family that was football oriented."
"When I play football, I forget my problems. It is my joy. It is my happiness."
"Pressure is a privilege for me."
"I like being criticised because if I am not being criticized, I get worried because it means that people care."
"Glasgow is my home. I call it my second home."
"I do not only represent my team or just my family, but I also represent kids from back home."
"“It’s very important for us to achieve things and make history for the next generation. When they come here, they must know they can’t take things for granted and need to work for the nation."
"I used to play football with boys before playing with girls."
"It’s every player’s dream to play in the World Cup. Everyone that is here is trying to find their ticket to the World Cup."
"I think the lesson for us is that if we put the badge first and remember the people on ground who support us. That is what pushes us as a team. We are just taking lessons from the previous experiences, and just want to do it for the badge and for the people."
"I think, one thing about experience is that you can't buy it, you need to earn it, and being part of this tournament earned that experience for the team, and the individuals to show what we're made of in South Africa and the type of skills and players we have."
"Grassroots football is so important."
"It’s not a coincidence for me to be where I am now. It’s something that I’ve been working towards for years, without even changing the recipe – just constantly showing up and working hard, even when nobody is looking."
"For me, the biggest drive has been my family, to ensure that I achieve my goals so that I can make life better for them. That’s my biggest motivation."
"Being where I am now is definitely a dream come true – something I’ve been working towards for years. So, it’s quite fulfilling."
"As a footballer it’s also important to have a purpose besides things on the field."
"That’s actually what I want to be, the best striker in the world."
"Because I don't score for me, I score for the team, I score for my fans, I score my family, and my team to win at the end of the day."
"Football is a team sport, and I would not have achieved this without the incredible support of my coaches, teammates and family."
"Being nominated motivates me to push even harder, not just for myself but for my teammates and everyone who supports me. This nomination also inspires other kids to believe in themselves and work hard to achieve their dreams."
"I’m still the same humble Nthabiseng I was before. But definitely my life has changed a lot."
"A lot of these girls are discouraged. They have to choose between going to school and work or playing football."
"My advice to them is to work hard. Keep on pushing. Because success does not come without hard work."
"I know that it’s important to be educated, because football is a very short career."
"White girls played hockey and netball but my love was always football."
"The nearest women’s team I could play for was in a township and as the only white girl it was difficult at first. I had to learn a different culture and background and a whole different language of the game. I had never seen such living conditions in my life. Some of the girls didn’t have any shoes or football boots and I was getting football boots every second or third month. It made me realise how privileged I was and what I had."
"At first it was really difficult to fit in. The boys wouldn't pass me the ball, they didn't accept me into the team so I was kind of isolated from everything."
"The reason I continued was the determination of wanting to do well. I knew I had it in me to be a good player. I wasn't weak, I could kick a ball and I just loved playing the game."
"Nothing worth having comes easy and I worked hard to make my dream a reality."
"I believe in living a life that’s free of the fear of judgement, the fear of criticism and the fear of not being enough. And when fear does creep in, I confront it and fight back against it."
"I believe that women have an inner strength and are able to accomplish anything we put our minds to. Be yourself, be a leader, be courageous and strong, take risks and trust that you can achieve anything you want."
"The core principle of the dream was to create opportunities for girls of all ages to play football in a comfortable environment, where each player is encouraged and motivated to participate and give their best according to their ability."
"When I was younger, there were many times when I felt isolated and not part of the team because I am a woman. There have been so many barriers but I have continuously let my passion and my love of the game shine through."
"You know, when you see yourself being able to compete against boys you automatically become confident in yourself as a girl."
"No road to success is smooth."
"Any athlete will tell you that. It’s all about sacrifices and hard work and dealing with disappointment and all kinds of failures."
"Most of all what has kept me alive is my passion and love for the game."
"Without this sport I am not sure where life would’ve taken me. Everything I am and have achieved is through this beautiful game."
"I started playing from a young age with the boys who moulded me into a strong and bold woman. They shaped me into what I am today and to stand out among the rest."
"Women are powerful and strong."
"I believe that Africa has quality and phenomenal talent that clubs abroad are benefitting from because of the lack of high-level competitions in our respective countries."
"Football is my life and I wouldn't want to live without it. Every day is an opportunity to get better, whether you are injured and you want to heal to get better, or you don't have confidence and you need to be that better player."
"I just take every day as a new opportunity for me to be a better player and give the best I can towards the game."
"I want to help develop young girls -- and not necessarily [only] young girls, but players in general, and just share my expertise and my knowledge that I have gained over the years to other female football players."
"I didn’t even think that I would reach 100, never mind 150. I was just playing soccer and representing my country. I was just doing what I love. I didn’t even expect that one day I will be one of the most capped players in senior women’s football. I was just playing soccer, being a girl from a rural area, just doing what I love, that’s why I said I feel blessed that I am amongst those legends in Africa."
"I’m proud of myself because I never thought that I would be where I am today."
"You know, that’s why I say hard work pays off. Just keep working. God will answer your prayers and just keep praying."
"When the young girls watch us on television they tell their parents, I want to play like Mpumi Nyandeni or Portia Modise… Thanks to the SABC and Hollywoodbets our games are now on television, if they can’t go to the stadium they can still see us and they know they can still watch women’s football. This will inspire them to play soccer because they are now able to see us and in that way, we inspire them to achieve their dreams and even achieve more than we have."
"I will say to the young, upcoming footballers, they need to work hard, stay disciplined and carry themselves (well). What is important is how to carry yourself and don’t forget to pray and work hard, because your hard work, is going to pay off. So they need to work hard and leave the friends that have bad habits."
"Choose your friends but focus on yourself and believe in yourself. So that is most important if you believe in yourself, no one can take that from you."
"The way I loved football, I just wanted to be around the football pitch; I would ref sometimes."
"I am a firm believer that discipline, hard work, and passion are the best form of ingredients for a player to last as long as I have in the game."
"For me, personally, no one has the audacity to come and tell me when I should retire because that person was not there when I started playing football."
"I will retire when my body is no longer able to carry me. I will retire on my own accord."
"Football is my world – without it, there’s little else for me. My passion for the game is boundless, and I aim to keep playing for as long as I can. That’s how deep my love for football runs."
"I think showcasing our talent and competing on a global stage will definitely bring positive change into the sport."
"I think when you go there, you must be brave and be tough. When you start to be nervous and you see players who have long been playing in the World Cup, you won’t cope."
"The first game is where you push. No matter what happens, how bad the result or score is, but if you push in the first game, that’s when you’ll realise you can push in the second as well."
"All the players who are based abroad are ambassadors and we need to set good examples and standards for those that are back home or those that will follow in our footsteps, so yes there is a lot of pressure on all of us – but it is the kind that motivates us to well and represent our country in a most outstanding way. To be honest, I am excited and nervous at the same time – excited about the move, but also nervous that I am going to a new country, which means new beginnings. This is a really a dream come true"
"You don’t have to leave where you’re from. Access and opportunities should come to you, to elevate your career and give you a chance. Leaving home wasn’t easy; leaving my parents behind and chasing this football dream. But when I made it, my life changed."
"I managed to get into university because of football."
"I had good mentors around me."
"The women’s game in Africa has seriously evolved. Five or six years ago, when we were still playing, things were different. Today’s players enjoy more financial incentives, programs, and better opportunities."
"Equal pay isn’t just about salary. Are we getting equal platforms? Equal access? Equal broadcasting rights? Women’s football must be visible for people to know about it."
"Football gave me everything. I’m truly grateful."
"It's not just a major win for me personally in my career, but for many other aspiring women who want to be in the commentary space."
"As a former footballer, I know what it's like to be on the pitch."
"Interpreting a game is not always easy. It comes with confidence."
"I fell back into soccer, because at every corner boys were playing football and I just stood out as the only girl."
"At this rate, we may not see how much of an impact this team has had on women's football because we always water down their achievements."
"We’re deliberately stifling the growth of women’s football while boys' youth programmes and senior competitions keep getting the mileage and recognition. It does feel like women’s football is on its own."
"It’s not easy playing with a target on your back."
"The challenge of not being prioritised and empty promises still lingers because we still treat this team like or as an afterthought."
"There is nothing like family support for me. Family is everything."
"To know that there are people who care about you and wish you success is very motivating."
"Ultimately, working as a team will be key. Team spirit will help us prevail."
"I think every defender can say that the minute we step on the field and in training, we try not to concede because the team won’t lose if we don’t."
"It's about what you want in life. Studying and playing football at the same time is a nice challenge, it keeps you focused. I am not finding it difficult at all."
"I’ve never doubted myself, but I never thought I’d be here this soon!"
"It is a dream for all African players to come to Europe and play football, so it is a dream come true that I am now standing here in Farum."
"I am very goal-oriented as a player, and if I had to describe myself in a few words, I would probably define myself as a “silent killer” on the pitch."
"Excited is an understatement for me, I still pinch myself now and then just to make sure that I am not dreaming."
"We understand the significance of our supporters and we aim to give them a reason to cheer. They have stood by us through thick and thin and it’s our responsibility to put in a performance that they can be proud of."
"Our supporters are our 12th player on the pitch and we know that their energy and enthusiasm can make a huge difference to our performance. We value their contribution, and we’ll do everything possible to ensure that we give them a reason to celebrate on Saturday."
"When you come from the villages you don’t give up. We keep on working no matter what."
"It’s also about working hard and not giving up. Because when you love something you’ve got to go the extra mile."
"Sometimes we mess up our opportunities. But if it had to happen, it had to happen."
"I don’t like to be relaxed. When it’s my time to move, it’s my time to move. I wake up in the morning and pray. After that, I go for a run. Then I train with some boys. On Sundays, we play matches."
"I don’t need to be reminded about where I come from. Wherever I go my name stays the same, my accent stays the same. But it’s good to know people are behind me."
"We are feeling good, and we are prepared. We know what it will take to defend our title, and we will have to work as a team – play for one another, support each other, fight for one another. So, teamwork will win the day, unlike in tennis where you are on your own."
"I want to do more talking on the field of play."
"Teamwork will win games for us because football is about the team not individuals...we're here as a team, representing our country."
"I fell in love with football when my two brothers played football, I would stand on the touch line and watch them. I was only 7-years-old when my mom bought me my first soccer boots and that increased my confidence."
"I am motivated that women’s football has been understated for a long time, now at least we have an opportunity to play. My mom used to tell me how she loved football but they never got the chance to play."
"My inspiration is to take South African football forward."
"I am very open to learning from my mistakes, and I’m really grateful for them."
"I’m really grateful and I know the people from home are very proud of me. We play very good football in Hammersdale and there aren’t a lot of girls that play football."
"My mother was a netball player and my father played football. So, I think my parents' love for sports really pushed me. I’m also happy that I got into football because if it wasn’t for it maybe I would be a disrespectful child and it just taught me to treat people with kindness."
"Sports changed my life."
"I believe that this says a lot about women’s football in general in South Africa. It means women’s football is growing in a positive manner. Each and every staff member and players gave their best and that’s why we were able to get the gold medal at the end of the tournament. This is a positive sign for the future of our national team."
"Yes I did and I think there are more young girls now who are seeing that it is possible to become a professional soccer player because of others who have led the way."
"As I pointed out, when I was young the only thing I saw myself being was and still is, a professional footballer."
"I think every player needs to be patient because their time is coming as well."
"She had that thing that football is for boys only."
"It’s actually not easy to juggle school and football."
"Sometimes you've to go to camp, while you have assignments. So it’s daunting but doable."
"As time went by, I had to start at church before going to Sunday games. Even my coaches understood that on Sunday I’d arrive late because I’d start at church. It was either that or I don’t come at all. But now she’s so happy for me."
"From day one, it became clear that no sports career lasts forever. We had to be as passionate about our studies as were about football."
"Being a versatile player is one of the things that work to my advantage."
"I love every position as long as I’m playing football. Whatever role I have to play in the position that I’m selected for, I always make sure I do my best."
"I always prepare for whatever comes my way."
"Honestly I do, I feel like the hard work is paying off but I realise that I still have a lot to learn, a lot to improve on and consistently playing is helping me improve a lot, so I'm grateful for that."
"So, I'm happy because it makes me feel at peace knowing that I can make a mistake and they will correct me. Also, knowing it's comfortable that they are happy for me to be here and it's good."
"It's gonna mean the world, I really love presenting the country."
"It was also one of his dreams to see me playing abroad, he would be very proud and happy for me now. My dad was very supportive with my career and came to watch each and every game I played, coaching me here and there. I know I am where I am today because of him."
"It is every girl’s dream to take part in the biggest women’s football tournament on the African continent, and I am no different."
"My dad was my support system, he would drive me to practice every day and he would have to drive back home an hour away, as I was in boarding school and they would not allow me to leave the premises alone."
"Education is very important. I know I love football and I know I can make a living out of it but things are different in South Africa, as we do not have a professional league here."
"I know there will come a stage when I won’t be able to play professional football."
"I need to have something to fall back on. Injuries occur sometimes and I should be ready if something like that happens. Not only will education help me in the future, but I can also apply the knowledge I gain while playing soccer; aspects such as injury prevention, rehabilitation, sport psychology among others."
"Sometimes, I feel like quitting but I have one goal; to finish this year even if it means crawling to the finish line."
"Through education, you can achieve your goals."
"Not everyone will represent their country at national level. Education is the best thing you can fall back on if things don’t work out the way you want them to. Let’s get that qualification!"
"I have learnt a lot from it, from playing against the best players in the world. It is an experience that no one can take away from me."
"The smiles they put on my face that day… it hit me that they needed us more. I realised that when I made it, I had to go back and help. I want to show people who think they have boundaries that there are no limits."
"The first thing you need as a footballer is a ball. Then you need shoes. If you have that, you’ve got the confidence to play. That changes everything."
"It all starts with development. The earlier kids have access to proper gear and training, the better their chances of making it. If brands invest now, they’re not only changing lives, they’re strengthening our national teams, our leagues, our future."
"I’ve made it out of an under-resourced area, and they can too. The impossible is nothing."
"Imagine what the national team could achieve if women’s football was fully professional. It would change everything."
"It’s important to remember where you come from and to use your success to uplift others. I want these young players to know that their dreams are valid. They must know that with hard work and dedication, they can achieve anything."
"I know that I love football and can sustain myself by making a living out of it but circumstances might change – like getting an injury and obviously reaching a stage where I won't be able to play professional football and I need something to fall back on, in this case, it's my education. It also helps me apply the knowledge that I have while playing the game: aspects such as prevention of injury, sport psychology, etc."
"The partnership with adidas allows me to dream big about my goals and aspirations. I can fully concentrate on my performance without stressing about boots and bras that will help me to perform extremely well."
"Sponsorships go beyond just tangible things. I have access to a team of experts to help me optimise my training and nutrition to ensure that I perform at my best."
"This is a big win, not only for me but for other sportswomen as well from disadvantaged areas. Let's celebrate and pave the way for the next generation of athletes by also giving back to the communities we come from."
"Being a radiologist helped me because I knew that if I gave myself enough time to recover, there'd be less chance of me getting injured again."
"Had I not quit my job, I wouldn't be here because I was working in the deep rural areas. It was very hard to train. I was training with the boys."
"Not everyone gets a chance to play at the highest level of sport, especially when you are from a rural area like where I come from."
"I know that one day it will also pay off and that once I am retired from football, I have something to fall back on."
"I always make sure no day passes without me not going to the library. I have to always ensure I am ahead with my studying and finish my assignments very early."
"What you put in is what you get out."
"I think for me we need people to come and watch our games."
"I think it's because most females, they all want to go into coaching actually and I think they also don't realise that they are some other branches that you can go into and I think this one of them and that's where I saw that there was a gap and there was a lot of opportunities."
"So, there's a lot more than just being a coach, there's a lot you can do in football and contribute to the game."
"I was always involved in sport. I used to be the only girl at school or back home playing with the boys. At school I tried all sports that were available, but I enjoyed football more than anything"
"Football is not just about becoming a great player it’s also about becoming a great person."
"We need people to invest in women’s football. The team managed to qualify without a professional league. We need a professional league so that players can be committed to the game and the national team needs to play very international break against the best teams, get exposure and play abroad."
"Extremely difficult, I'm gonna be honest, we all know as athletes, it's very, very difficult to come back from an injury. For the most part, it knocks down the mental side of things but I had to be tough on myself and be like, you gotta get back into the game, that's what I love to do."
"Personally, it has been talked about for so many years that women's football needs to be professionalised, but at this point, I am going to reserve my comments and will only believe it when I see it practically happening. I've heard it mentioned so many times that I don't believe anything they say about the intention anymore."
"Indeed, as female footballers, we do value education highly because it's simple: We are not paid enough to make a living out of the game, whereas our male counterparts can play, say, for 10 or even five years and make enough money in order to make a living if they use their funds properly. So, there is a huge gap in terms of we know that we are not being paid well and the money that we make cannot sustain us for the rest of our lives or for a longer period of time, so we opt to navigate towards education. That is so that we are able to secure full-time jobs on the side, or even after football. We need that more than our male counterparts."
"I own it because it gives me so much pride in being a woman in a space mostly deemed as a men's sport."
"Oh, I love those people. They treat me like a human being – like a girl. Let me tell you when we go and do shoots, they just hire a whole makeup crew to pamper me and I love that."
"I love the face beats, lipsticks, eyelashes – just everything about it. I love everything about it. You know what, Puma, let’s just end it there because I can just go on and on about Puma!"
"Life has been amazing, spending time with my family and that’s what I’ve been longing for many years, as you know as a professional athlete you travel a lot ... you don’t get time to sit down. I don’t know if players talk about it, I’m taking time to take care of my mental health."
"When I talk about mental health, I’m not saying I wanted to kill myself. You get tired as a person, that’s why there is sick leave, and people go on vacations, I needed that."
"There are many things that go on that people from the outside don’t understand, but as a person I understand myself, I know how I operate, I know when I need a break, I know when I’m having a breakdown, I know when my body says 'no' and when it says 'yes', so I have to listen to it."
"Before achieving everything that we achieved, we set goals and said this is what we want at this time. And we achieved everything, every goal that was set."
"Development is key. 100%."
"I demand more of myself and my teammates. I want to win things – this is where my teammates and I are supposed to show up. This is where we are supposed to show the world who we are, right?"
"I command and organise when needed. I also understand the need to encourage and push the team to stay on top of our game."
"Barriers are only in the mind. If you truly want something, do whatever it takes. Invest in yourself if you’re not getting the support you desire."
"There is always something that feels unfulfilled when I wake up."
"I’ve got something to do on this planet and whatever that purpose is keeps me going."
"It is extremely important to be mentally tough."
"NEVER give up. Always lift your head up. Always be positive."
"My family is extremely proud of me and very excited. They spoil me every time I do well at sports."
"I want for other learners to know that there are opportunities in sports and if they continue studying doors could open, let your talent make room for you."
"I had to make a decision on my own, that I wanted to be a professional footballer."
"But it’s tough. Especially when there’s no women’s team. Because where do you start? Hopefully one day it will change. Hopefully I can be part of that change."
"It felt great knowing people notice the talent I am blessed with. It gives me the motivation to work hard and to get better."
"I believe if our league can have more sponsors it would help teams to build good structures and prepare properly for the league and games."
"To Market more women’s football games and promote each team just as much as the top teams."
"I’m the only girl in our home, and my father used to play football. So, I started playing football at the age of 6 with a boys’ team. To be honest, I’ve been lucky to have my family’s support. Even though they got scared for me at times, of getting injured, specially playing with boys, but they kept supporting me. My mother even used to take me to my trainings."
"When you reach a certain age, you realize that being only a footballer does not help you financially, as women’s football does not have enough money as the men’s game. So, I made sure to secure myself with another full-time job. I had to work on both at the same time."
"To be where I am today, I owe it to my supporting mother, and to my recently passed away grandmother. I’ve been through many challenges in my life, but it all made me the strong woman I am today. So, girls must not give up; everything comes with time. Do not get distracted with downs, consistent work and training gets you where you want."
"We are not just aiming for a win; we are looking to make a statement and solidify our position at the top of the league."
"But winning away from home always feels good. Securing all 3 points is crucial, regardless of who the opponents are."
"I am thankful for everyone who have contributed to my growth, good and bad, and I am ready for the new challenges ahead of me that requires new focus."
"I am happy to have contributed to their growth with opportunities that were not around when I started as a young kid."
"We don’t approach football games seeking revenge."
"It depends on the coach. Every player and every coach has their own preference. So, if the coach prefers a certain player you won't make the team. In South Africa when you reach 30, they think you are old."
"We don't believe in experience and experience can't be bought. You build experience. So, this thing of 'We are building, we want new blood' I feel like we still have a long way to go."
"I believe if you mix new and experienced players it makes a good team. Younger players have energy and experienced players have the experience to build."
"At training or on the field of play it is not so much an issue because football language is universal, and I understand most words. The main challenge is when I have to converse with my teammates off the field, but I am getting there."
"My love for football goes beyond just playing the game to the best of my ability. I love all facets of the game and being a coach excites me. While I was abroad, I had the privilege of interacting with several people who broadened my holistic understanding of the game. My journey thus far as a coach has been an interesting one because it has opened my eyes to several ideas about what goes on before, during and after the game."
"I am very happy with the way the world is paying attention to women in the game of football."
"I always feel so emotional when I see youngsters knocking the ball around with confidence. I see myself in them and it excites me to train them. I hope that they keep their heads down and learn more about the game. I hope they eventually exceed my achievements because they are very talented and I am working hard to help them achieve their potential."
"It’s always a good feeling when you have a positive impact on the outcome of a game."
"Football has given me so many memories and lessons that I will carry for life."
"The will was there to continue, but the body was no longer responding the way it used to. I had to listen to it, respect its limits and make the tough decision."
"The transition from being a player to stepping into a coach has been exciting and humbling. As a player, I was used to being on the field—scoring, assisting and making things happen. Now, I lead from the sidelines, but with the same passion and drive. It is a different kind of responsibility that requires vision, clarity and patience."
"What makes it easier is that I have walked the same path many of these players are on. I know what they are fighting for. I am here to guide them—with honesty and experience."
"I am excited for what lies ahead and ready to continue building a legacy that empowers the next generation."
"I don’t normally like to talk about it. Coming from a royal family, being a female and wanting to play football. The family… they wanted me to be something else."
"I would say they do support me today, even though they would prefer if I was a princess. But I refuse to be that because football is something that I love, it completes my life and my world."
"It is not easy playing with the ‘big guns’, but we enjoyed ourselves and the experience we got playing there, we are using it now."
"We did not just do it for ourselves, but also the young ones out there, the next generation so that everyone can recognize that in South Africa we have good players. That will hopefully open the doors for others to get a contract overseas."
"Age is just a number, as long as I can still play and run, that is what matters most."
"The only problem that we have as Africans going overseas is our development."
"I would start by introducing school football and development academies for girls, and then ensuring there were sponsors for female teams and seeking support from the department of sport and other organisations to assist with the growth of women's and girls' sport across all provinces."
"When I was young, they tried to stop me from playing football, but I refused and told them I was not interested in royal duties, my mom was not happy."
"Being a coach is not as easy as everyone thinks. There are so many aspects of the game that you have to pay close attention to. You need to understand the mindset of the players, as well as their mentality to buy into your philosophy. Being a coach also makes one understand the psychological aspects of the game because I am now able to understand the frustrations of a player when things are not going according to plan. Overall, by becoming a coach, I have gained a broader understanding of the game."
"We have learnt that there's a much quicker way of moving the football, we learnt not to give the ball too much."
"Consistency is very important, it builds the team's confidence."
"My football career started at the age of 13. I was very hyped and excited for football, playing for the national team and my team. I was just enjoying the fact that I’m playing football."
"I faced many people that always told me football is not for girls, but it’s not about that, it’s about what I love."
"Every dream has its challenges, and those challenges build you. It’s always about how you get up."
"Every girl has to be strong and push forward, never listen to any negativity. People will hate and love, you must face it all. That’s life, it’s never easy."
"Growing up in a small town, I never had small dreams. Only big targets and destinations! I always dream big."
"To young girls, you should not try to be someone else. You do not what people go through to be who they are. Do not listen to people saying, ‘you cannot do it’. Only you can decide that!"
"I'm busy, but I don't find it difficult. When it comes to my lifestyle, the industry, I get a lot of time cos I know no one dictates for me. It's about me."
"When it comes to football everything runs on time, on their a schedule, we must be there. We signed a contract, and working for them. But as an individual, I'm working for myself."
"What I like about me, I can transfer this energy. If I'm at soccer, I'm at soccer, I train I keep the energy. I go home, get a bit of rest, and I go back to the studio. On and off the pitch I can still work, than someone who can complain 'I'm from soccer' and they sleep. I'm not like that."
"Dancing has always been there, as part of street culture."
"Amapiano is a vibe, it is a culture and it is a celebration of being young."
"I'm happy with the way I am. I'm a product of God. People should be supportive about my career, not be judgemental."
"I want people to respect and support me."
"When you score goals, you increase your chances of winning games. As such, we are determined to score more in April. I am happy with the way even the new signings have hit the ground running in terms of putting the ball in the back of the net."
"I am grateful to pursue my love for music and football simultaneously. Doors that I have never imagined are opening for me because I work hard in all that I do. It is a marvellous time to live a dream that I never saw coming. Now that I am realising my dreams across both fronts, I aim to keep soaring higher. Like I always say, believe in your dreams, because if you do not give up, that dream will become a reality"
"What a time to be alive. I appreciate the fact that we live in a time where we as the youth are reaping the blessings that our ancestors struggled for."
"I want them to watch how I navigate my career and how I carry myself, more imperatively they must watch how I treat people. Everyone you know brings you closer to your next yes."
"Reality is we are all from different backgrounds [that is why] it’s a special place to find family within a work space regardless of the industry. The family aspect of it all, everyone at Sundowns has yellow blood."
"Soccer has positively influenced my life in many ways. It has ensured that I could further my education at tertiary level, it has groomed me holistically, it has also helped me to become the individual that I am right now."
"Stay disciplined and focus on your goals ."
"Believe that whatever you want is possible to achieve, do not let your circumstances define where YOU WANT to end up."
"Work hard, hard work always beats talent when talent doesn’t work."
"Having to be mentally strong is very important in life and having an understanding that things won’t always go our way is important. Dealing with hurdles is important."
"Teachers played an integral part of my life. They were the ones who constantly kept me on my toes academically and with my football. The support was the most important part from my teacher and lecturers throughout my education years. The understanding that I am a student athlete was very important."
"To the educators, support the kids, by all means be the mentor that they never had growing up or they wish they always had. Encourage learners to pursue their dreams however emphasise the importance of education, especially to the girl child! The fight for equality in sports continues."
"I had to make time management one of my main practices and prioritize my studies before my football, because I was a student before being a soccer player. Discipline, dedication and hard work – these are some the traits that helped me balance my football and studies."
"It is important for girls to have someone to show them the way, and I take this seriously. I would love my values and actions to inspire the next generation and give hope to the hopeless; to be someone young girls wish to emulate. I also want to help young girls feel like they belong, especially in a sport seen to be male dominated. They need to be inspired when looking, hearing, or seeing me."
"Try to accept yourself and be kind to yourself. It’s the most important and perhaps the toughest thing to do. Practice looking after your needs and refrain from putting your wellbeing at risk to please others. Continue loving yourself even when someone treats you poorly, bullies you, or shows you disrespect."
"No matter who you are or where you come from, have confidence in yourself and follow your path. Rise above your circumstances – never let them define where you can or want to end up."
"Things that keep me hungry for success are making myself and my family proud. Wanting to give back and to be remembered. To leave a mark everywhere I touch or pass. My desire to win and to realise my goals."
"The World Cup is every soccer player’s dream, including mine. I would love to play at a World Cup and believe that if it’s meant for me it will come to pass. For now, I can only control the variable in my power, continue to work hard, stay disciplined and determined. The rest is up to God."
"But at the end of the day, you don’t do things to please people but to please yourself and for your well-being and what you think is the best for you. At the end of the day, it’s about you."
"We did apply ourselves and did everything we could to win, but sometimes when it is not your day, it’s not your day."
"Yes, we might sweat, but at the end of the day, we need to go out there and collect all three point."
"At 6 years old, football was very interesting for me. My family encouraged me to play and then I started playing with a girls’ team after playing in the streets for a long time."
"There are many players who wish to be in our place right now, we are very grateful to be here. And I feel it can open more opportunities for me, so I’m grateful."
"We are never taken seriously as female footballer, but I feel that this is changing gradually. We should be equal to men in this sport because we play it well."
"Every girl should keep on working hard because anything is possible in life. I never thought I’d end up here one day, but it’s possible. It happened for us, and it can happen for anyone. And never neglect your school, school comes first along with football. Education will make you accomplish your dreams, so take your future seriously, that’s what I tell our youngsters in the team."
"I went through a lot in my life, it was never easy. You need to be disciplined in your life, to focus, take responsibility and work harder than you can, that’s what I did and will keep doing."
"As coaches, we are genuinely delighted with the remarkable form displayed by our girls. We take immense pride in their techniques, solid positioning and growing tactical awareness. It brings us great satisfaction to witness their diligent implementation of the training sessions. Naturally, we are also thrilled with their consistent winning performances. However, as coaches, we recognize the importance of preventing complacency and nurturing a hunger for continuous success. It is our responsibility to guide and motivate them towards reaching new heights and achieving even greater accomplishments."
"We work for one another; we die for another on that field of play. It doesn’t matter who is playing or not playing. Whoever is chosen does the job. Even when the coaches change things up and bring in new players, you cannot see who has been subbed off and who has replaced them."
"But I think it's good, you can tell women's football is growing. The coaches are now becoming more wiser in how they approach games. It is good for the fans and it is good for the league."
"I was so overwhelmed with the mantle of responsibility that was presented before me. It was a great privilege to lead the line and I will never forget this opportunity."
"This captaincy role has further improved my knowledge of the game. As a skipper, there are so many aspects of the game that must always be studied in real-time. Although we did not finish the tournament the way we anticipated, I understood the challenges of what leadership comes with. The experience obtained is priceless and if the opportunity to become a captain arises again in the nearest future, I will be willing and ready to step in and showcase my abilities."
"That was a minor setback, nothing more. We are a team built to win and that is not about to change. Our focus is already set on the next challenge and Sunday’s game will be a perfect opportunity to bounce back."
"We are preparing quite well and focusing more on our composure in front of the goal because we realized we created lots of chances, but we only managed to convert one in our previous game. We do not want to leave anything to chance on Sunday. We will be sharper in front of goal and that will make all the difference."
"Finding the right balance between offensive and defensive moves, anticipating your opponent’s next move and making calculated decisions to gain an advantage are crucial aspects of both chess and football. Both games demand a combination of skill, foresight and tactical awareness to outwit your opponent and secure victory."
"The ability to think several moves ahead in chess has translated into improved anticipation and decision-making on the football pitch. I can now better identify potential openings and visualize different scenarios."
"The only competition we can and have competed in is the COSAFA Cup, so I honestly don’t know what I can achieve with my national team. Maybe I will be one of those great players who retire without ever being at a major tournament."
"It’s every player’s dream to play abroad, and I am no different. I would like to see myself getting out of my comfort zone and challenge myself against some of the best players in the world."
"Putting the ball in the back of the net is always a good feeling because goals help us to win games."
"Adapting to a new country with a different culture and way of doing things was tough at first."
"All I can say - is that we have players who are always willing to take instructions - they make our job easy and we are very proud of their achievements this season."
"It is such a great opportunity to be given a chance to showcase my talent as a woman."
"I am very proud of how far I have come and I am hoping to inspire more women in football and across other disciplines they find themselves in."
"I am proof that gender cannot prevent one from becoming what they want to be."
"At the end of the day, it comes down to the application of one’s self in whatever he or she is doing. Again, I am very thrilled at the prospect of making more history as a woman."
"I believe that everything starts at training, as coaches we make sure we apply good tactics, so that when we face-off with tough oppositions we can have players follow the game plan."
"It was a dream come true. In a way, I have been preparing for that moment because I've always wanted to be a coach."
"Before the match, I spoke about the unpredictability of the game of football because there are no pushovers in the sport anymore. It’s incredible to see how much momentum the women’s game is gaining across the continent. Nevertheless, the final allows us to showcase our attacking capabilities once again. We simply cannot wait."