Amanda Dlamini

Amanda Sinegugu Dlamini (born 22 July 1988) is a former South African soccer player who is currently a soccer analyst and football administrator. She represented the South Africa women's national team at the 2012 (as the captain) and 2016 Summer Olympics. Quotes 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. Amanda Dlamini: From Rural Roots to Ruling the Roost CAF Online (10 July 2025) 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. Amanda Dlamini: Former South African player on ground-breaking Afcon commentary role in Ivory Coast BBC Sport (15 February 2024) 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. Former Banyana Captain Amanda Dlamini: "Women's football is on its own" IOL (11 July 2025) External links Category:Living people Category:Soccer players from South Africa Category:1988 births Category:Women in sports Category:Women born in the 1980s