Portia Modise: A South African Football Icon

Portia Modise is a legendary South African soccer player, widely regarded as one of the greatest female footballers ever. As a key figure in the South African women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, she has inspired countless young girls and women across the continent to dream big and pursue football careers.

She was nominated for the women’s FIFA World Player of the Year award . She won the 2006 player of the Champoinship, at the womens African Football Champoinship, and 2014 South African Sport Stars awards of the year 201 4. She scored 102 goals for Banyana Banan, making her a true legend of women’s soccer in South Africa.

International Brilliance

In 2000, Modise made her debut in the African Women’s Championship (AWC), playing as a central striker. Over the years, she amassed an astonishing 120 caps for the national team, making her one of the most experienced and respected players in global women’s football.

She became the first African woman to score 100 international goals, finishing her international career with 102 goals — a record that solidifies her legendary status.

Career Highlights & Awards

• 2006 Player of the Championship – African Women’s Football Championship
• 2014 South African Sports Star of the Year
• Honored by SAFA in 2014 after reaching 100 goals for Banyana Banyana
• Nominated for FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year

Club Career Journey

Modise’s club career saw her play for both local and international teams:

• Soweto Rangers U10 – Started at just 7 years old
• Soweto Ladies (1996 – )
• Fortuna Hjørring (2007–2009, Denmark’s Elitedivisionen)
• Croesus Ladies (2014–2015)

Life After Football

Even after hanging up her boots, Portia continued to influence the game. In 2006, she began gaining coaching experience with Orlando Pirates Academy and later became a brand ambassador for South African football.

Today, she leads the Portia Modise Foundation, a non-profit initiative focused on youth development, community upliftment, and empowering future sports stars.

Legacy That Lives On

Portia Modise isn’t just a soccer legend — she’s a symbol of resilience, passion, and leadership. Her journey from a young girl in Soweto to a national icon continues to inspire the next generation of female footballers in South Africa and beyond.

“We must not be afraid to stand out, to fight for what we love, and to lead the way.” – Portia Modise

Bandile Buthelezi

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