DYNAMITE

Photos: BackpagePix | Michael Cox Photography By: MIHLALI BALEKA

Banyana Banyana star Linda Motlhalo is growing into a real force on the international and club fronts.

LINDA Motlhalo is diminutive. But what she does with the round ball at her feet defies that physical trait, given her big match temperament at Swedish outfit Djurgardens and the South African national team, Banyana Banyana.

There was no doubt that Banyana would find passage against Mozambique in the first round of the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations qualifiers last month. And it was pleasing to witness another superb outing by forward Motlhalo.

Motlhalo scored four goals in the 13-0 triumph over the two-legged qualifiers, while she also contributed in the other goals. That was a continuation of her form with the national team, having helped the team clinch the Buhari Cup in September.

Banyana’s Linda Motlhalo on the move as Netherlands’ Inessa Kaagman closes in during the Winnie Mandela International Challenge at Cape Town Stadium.

These starring roles by Motlhalo were proof of her growth as a player and a woman. It was not so long ago when she made her first overseas move, joining Houston Dash in the US on the recommendation of former Banyana coach Vera Pauw.

After that fruitful stint, she moved to Chinese side Beijing BG Phoenix. Perhaps her biggest career highlight to date was playing in her first World Cup in 2019. That’s where she earned a global status and moved to Sweden as well.

Despite the world having been brought to its knees by the coronavirus pandemic early last year, there were positives to jot down for Motlhalo. She was voted as the Newcomer of the Year at Djurgardens after a breathtaking maiden campaign.

That didn’t come on a silver platter as Motlhalo had to drop some of her habits, including being shy and reserved. She had to find a way to fit into the team, which meant constant engagement with her teammates and coaching staff.

“I must say that I didn’t see that coming, getting the Newcomer of the Year award,” she told Gsport4girls early this year. “But again, I would say it’s because of my hard work. And me getting out of my comfort zone.”

She added: “I am one who doesn’t speak a lot. But last year, I was able to ask questions. I talked to the players, asking for advice. I think that played a huge role (in my growth and adaptation). That’s why I got the Newcomer of the Year award.”

Motlhalo in action during a training session for her previous club Houston Dash.