More African women are proving that football isn’t just a sport for men. Despite the longstanding focus on male players in the football world, these remarkable women are making significant strides, showcasing unparalleled skills and breaking records in a sport historically dominated by men. The women’s game has gained visibility and respect in recent years, demonstrating that female players can achieve excellence on the pitch. Here, we spotlight 10 African queens of the pitch who exemplify talent, passion, and determination. They etch their names into the history of football and inspire the next generation of female footballers. Their stories highlight their achievements and reflect the growing movement for gender equality in sports.
1. Vivian Corazone Aquino (Kenya)
Vivian Corazone Aquino is a standout Kenyan midfielder who is celebrated for her creativity, precise passes, and control of the game’s tempo. Aquino’s career started locally before earning her a spot on the national team, the Harambee Starlets. She also had a professional stint in Sweden with Vitsjö GIK, gaining exposure to high-level football. Her club journey includes Soccer Queens, Atlético Ouriense in Portugal, and Simba Queens in Tanzania’s Premier League. Throughout her career, Aquino has been a key player for Kenya, inspiring the next generation of female footballers.
2. Lilian Mutuuzo (Uganda)
Lilian Mutuuzo, a forward for Uganda’s Crested Cranes, is known for her speed and goal-scoring prowess. She debuted on the national team at just 16, making an immediate impact with a decisive goal against Kenya during the CECAFA Women’s Championship. Mutuuzo’s professional career began with Kampala Queens FC and later continued with Yei Joint Stars FC in South Sudan. Her talent and dedication make her a role model for aspiring female footballers in Uganda and beyond.
3. Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria)
Asisat Oshoala is one of Africa’s most decorated female footballers. Her journey began with Rivers Angels in Nigeria before moving to Liverpool FC in 2015, making history as the first African woman in the English Women’s Super League. Oshoala also played for Arsenal, winning the FA Women’s Cup, and later excelled in China with Dalian Quanjian. Currently at FC Barcelona, she has won multiple league titles and became the first African woman to score in a UEFA Women’s Champions League final. A five-time CAF Women’s Player of the Year, Oshoala empowers underprivileged girls through her foundation.
4. Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi)
Tabitha Chawinga’s journey began with DD Sunshine in Malawi before moving to Sweden’s Krokom/Dvärsätts IF, where she scored 39 goals in 18 matches during her debut season. Her success continued with Kvarnsvedens IK, where she netted 43 goals in one season. Later, she joined Jiangsu Suning in China, leading the team to a historic treble. In 2022, she signed with Inter Milan, showcasing her exceptional skills in Italy’s Serie A. Chawinga remains a shining example of passion and perseverance.
5. Ajara Nchout (Cameroon)
Ajara Nchout’s journey from playing barefoot to becoming one of Africa’s brightest football stars is inspiring. She began her professional career with FC Robo in Nigeria before moving to Europe, where she played for clubs like Zvezda Perm in Russia and Vålerenga in Norway. Ajara’s standout moment came during the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where her last-minute goal against New Zealand propelled Cameroon to the knockout stages. Ajara is celebrated with Inter Milan for her composure, skill, and leadership.
6. Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria)
Rasheedat Ajibade, known as “Rash,” is a dynamic forward for Nigeria’s Super Falcons and Atlético Madrid in Spain’s Liga F. Ajibade’s journey began with FC Robo, where she captained the team. She later represented Nigeria at the U-17 and U-20 World Cups. At Atlético Madrid, she has become an integral player, earning accolades for her consistent performances. Off the pitch, Ajibade supports young footballers through her philanthropic initiatives, embodying the spirit of giving back to her community.
7. Nouhaila Benzina (Morocco)
With her exceptional defensive skills, Nouhaila Benzina has elevated women’s football in Morocco. Starting her career at ASFAR Club, Benzina quickly became a standout player, earning her place on the Moroccan national team. In 2023, she made history as the first player to wear a hijab during a FIFA Women’s World Cup match, breaking barriers and inspiring countless young women worldwide.
8. Thembi Kgatlana (South Africa)
Thembi Kgatlana, a forward for South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, is celebrated for her pace and goal-scoring ability. Her career includes stints with Houston Dash in the U.S., Beijing BG Phoenix in China, and Al-Ittihad Club in Saudi Arabia. Kgatlana’s defining moment came during the 2018 AWCON, where she was named Player of the Tournament and top scorer. She also scored South Africa’s first FIFA Women’s World Cup goal, solidifying her place in history.
9. Refiloe Jane (South Africa)
Refiloe Jane, a midfielder for Sassuolo in Italy and Banyana Banyana, is renowned for her playmaking skills. She started her career at Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and later played for Canberra United in Australia. Jane was pivotal in South Africa’s historic 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification. Her consistency and leadership have made her a cornerstone of the South African national team.
10. Barbra Banda (Zambia)
Barbra Banda is a prolific striker and captain of Zambia’s Copper Queens. She made history at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as the first woman to score back-to-back hat-tricks. Banda began her professional career with Green Buffaloes in Zambia before excelling in Spain’s Primera División and China’s Women’s Super League, where she became the league’s top scorer. Her inspiring leadership has propelled Zambia to heights, including their first AWCON finals appearance.
These incredible women are not only football stars but also pioneers in redefining the sport in Africa and beyond. Their talent, resilience, and accomplishments inspire millions, demonstrating that football transcends gender.
