BY LOMQHELE NXUMALO
Young Sables Soccer Academy (YSSA) midfielder Francisca Ncube has been selected to join the Zimbabwe Under-15 Girls National Soccer Team in a development that has brought pride to the local football community.
Francisca, who began her football journey at the age of 11, is a shining example of emerging talent from rural areas. Initially a netball player, her football abilities were discovered by YSSA coaches while she was playing with boys in her community.
She later joined the academy and quickly rose through the ranks to become a regular member of the senior team, where she has established herself as a dependable midfielder.
The promising youngster has featured in over 50 matches for YSSA and played a key role in the team’s success, helping them secure back-to-back Rhino Cup Champions League titles in 2024 and 2025.
Her impressive performances have earned widespread recognition. In 2025, she collected several accolades, including Best Player at the RCCL Heroes Tournament, NAPH Provincial Competition, and the NAPH Hwange District tournament. She was also crowned Youngest Rookie at the YSSA Awards.
Ncube has also benefited from a scholarship opportunity with Maningi Queens, where she has trained to further develop her talent.
Speaking after her selection, shr expressed her excitement, saying,“I am very happy to be selected and I promise to continue working hard.” YSSA coach Kelvin Phiri praised the young star’s growth, saying her achievement will inspire other players in the community.“We are happy with the progress Francisca has made. This is a motivation to other young players to keep working hard and believe in their dreams,” he said.
Founded in 2019, Young Sables Soccer Academy continues to promote girls’ football in Hwange and surrounding areas despite limited resources. The academy believes Ncube’s achievement will open doors for more young girls to pursue football at higher levels.
Her selection marks a significant milestone not only for her career but also for the growth of women’s football in the district.
