Who is Linda Motlhalo? The Banyana Banyana playmaker dubbed the Randfontein Ronaldinho

South Africa's Banyana Banyana have become a force to be reckoned with on the international stage, and a significant share of the credit goes to the dazzling footwork and creative spark of Linda Motlhalo.

Nicknamed the "Randfontein Ronaldinho," this midfielder weaves magic on the pitch, leaving defenders mesmerized and crowds roaring. But who is the woman behind the nickname?

Born 1st July 1998 and raised in Brandvlein, Gauteng, Motlhalo's footballing talent blossomed early. Inspired by her uncle, Joseph Motlhalo, a former goalkeeper for Kaizer Chiefs, she honed her skills on dusty fields, her passion for the game burning bright.

Her talent didn't go unnoticed. Soon, she was enrolled in the prestigious TuksSport High School and became part of the South African High Performance Centre in Pretoria, a testament to her dedication and exceptional ability.

The 25-year-old donned the colours of USA's National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) side, Houston Dash in 2018 before making the switch to Beijing BG Phoenix in the Chinese Women's Super League in 2019 netting fourteen goals along the way.

That same year, she moved to Sweden penning a two-year deal with Djugårdens IF, bagging the club's newcomer of the year award for her performances in 2020 which saw her extend her contract by an additional two years.

In 2023, Motlhalo signed for Glasgow City in Scottish Women's Premier League and helped them lift the league title, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win at the Ibrox Stadium against Rangers on the final day of the season.

Following her success in Scotland, she returned to the USA, signing for Racing Louisville on a two year deal with an option to extend for another year.

This captivating playmaker has been on the books of the national team since her U-20 days before getting her first call up in 2015 and eventually making her debut in 2016.

She's been instrumental in the team's recent success, emerging as their top scorer in their 2022 Women's Africa Cup of Nations victory and featuring in the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup. With 20 goals international goals, her impact on the national team is undeniable.

Motlhalo's playing style embodies the flair of the legendary Brazilian Ronaldinho. She glides past defenders with audacious tricks and mesmerizing dribbles, leaving them clutching at thin air.

But her artistry isn't just about showmanship. It's about creating scoring opportunities for her teammates, unlocking defenses with pinpoint passes and teasing crosses.

Her vision on the pitch is as sharp as her skills, making her one of the creative heartbeats of the Banyana Banyana attack.

But Motlhalo's story extends beyond trophies and statistics. She's a role model for young girls across South Africa, proving that with talent, dedication, and a touch of magic, you can achieve greatness on the world stage.

The 'Randfontein Ronaldinho' isn't just a nickname; it's a symbol of audacious skill and a reminder that South Africa is a breeding ground for exceptional female footballing talent.

As Linda Motlhalo continues to mesmerize crowds and weave her magic on the pitch, there is no doubt whatsoever that the future of South African women's football is bright. 

Ejim Kaycee

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