A 16-year-old footballer is defying the odds and chasing her passion for the beautiful game. Lindelwa Ntuli, a Grade 11 learner at Gedlembane Secondary School, has been playing football since the age of eight and currently captains Mlaba FC’s U17 boys’ team.

She joined the boys’ team due to the lack of football clubs for women in her community.

“To be honest, I feel sad having to play with boys. However, my teammates make sure I feel valued, and as the captain, I have to lead by example for our team to win matches and tournaments,” she said.

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According to Lindelwa, captaining the team has affirmed her talent, discipline and passion for the sport. She draws inspiration from top South African women footballers such as Relebogile Mofokeng and Refiloe Jane.

“I hope to follow in Jane’s footsteps and one day play for South Africa’s national women’s team, Banyana Banyana. Despite the challenges we face as young female players, I am determined to succeed. I play with passion and skill to keep my dream of reaching the international stage alive,” she said.

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Mlaba FC’s coach, Thami Mavuso, praised Lindelwa’s dedication and discipline, both on and off the pitch. “No one thinks of her as a girl when she’s playing. Her skill surpasses that of some of the boys. I admire how she refused to let the lack of opportunities for women’s football in our area stop her from going after her dreams. Mlaba FC is her home,” Mavuso said.