Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Khunjulwa Mali has reflected on her captaincy role during the recent Women’s Diski Challenge in Tembisa. The 20-year-old midfielder was handed the captain’s armband during the tournament as the Brazilians fielded several youngsters and selected first-team players.
Although she was given the reins of authority for the first time in her career, the Pretoria-born midfielder grew into the role with aplomb.
“Frankly, it was such an experience wearing the Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies armband for the very first time in my young career. 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,” Mali stated.
The Brazilians began the tournament with a commanding 4-1 victory over the University of the North West Ladies. Banyana Ba Style then faced Ma-Indies and played to a 2-2 draw, but were outfoxed on penalties 5-3.
The outcome did little to prevent Mali from basking in the euphoria of leading the team, a role she is willing to embrace if the opportunity arises again in the nearest future.
“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,” the midfielder concluded.
Mali is widely lauded for her energetic dances and friendly demeanour off-the-pitch. On it, the midfielder was part of the team that clinched the COSAFA CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers, the inaugural edition of the CAF Women’s Champions League, and the Hollywoodbets Super League last season.
Keep shining Mali!!!
