As Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies prepare to head to the United States as the first African club to participate in the Women’s Cup tournament, veteran goalkeeper Andile Dlamini has opened up about how the beautiful game has drastically changed her life.
The Women's Africa Cup of Nations winner shared her inspiring story revealing that at some point in her life, she had no soccer boots and had to play the game wearing takkies on her feet.
“I believe that women have the power to achieve anything they set their minds to. The struggles I had getting into football, I had no boots at one point, and I played with my takkies.
“A professional contract changed my life. I’m able to support my family because I’m the breadwinner,” Dlamini said.
With South Africa celebrating Women's Month, the 31-year-old Dlamini also shed light on the struggles women football players have to contend with, adding that lots of women's clubs in the country are struggling financially.
“As a woman, it’s not easy playing football in Africa because not all teams support their women. A lot of girls and teams are struggling with getting sponsorships.
“I’m just grateful to be a part of it, and I pray that a lot of girls receive the opportunity to get a professional contract because it changes your life," Dlamini said in video posted by The Women’s Cup on Instagram
The Cosafa Women's Goalkeeper of the Year, also stressed that she also wanted to leave a lasting legacy that upcoming footballers can look up.
“I want to leave that legacy as well. I want to lay the foundation for the young up-and-coming generation. It’s all about us teaching them, and actually sharing the knowledge that we have for football.
“I hope to inspire young women around the world to achieve their dreams, believe in yourself and work hard,” she said.
The Women's Cup, which will be in its third edition this year is an annual club women's soccer invitational tournament and will commence on the 14th of August.
Masandawana will get to test themselves against top teams such as Atletico de Madrid, the Kobe women’s team and Kansas City as they seek to bring back the trophy home .
IOL Sport