Dylan Bettencourt
Zambian forward Noria Sosala’s injuries have often plagued her chances of taking centre stage – until now.
For the last few years, Sosala has not been able to catch a break, with injuries ruining her chances of competing at the 2018 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) and the Tokyo Olympics last year.
However, now at the age of 33 and in the twilight of her career, Sosala has the chance to showcase her talent on the international stage.
Sosala and her Zambian side face Senegal on Wednesday for the chance to qualify for next year’s Fifa World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Although she harboured hopes of making history, Sosala often thought she would not be able to take to the field again.
“I had lost hope that I would ever return to the national team but with God’s mercy and my faith I made a comeback to the team and here I am. I am playing at the highest level of women’s football in Africa,” she told CAF Online.
“A player should have a strong heart and never give up no matter the circumstances. Even if you have an injury, you have to put God first and secondly, discipline is very important especially for the players.”
The striker had to wait for her chance to finally get back on the field and that she did in Zambia’s final group game where they defeated Togo 4-1.
“I’m happy and the team is happy because we have been working hard to reach the quarter-finals. We know what we want heading into the last eight,” she said. “Our target is to win the Wafcon and qualify for the Fifa Women’s World Cup 2023.” The veteran played in the 2014 Wafcon.
“So much has changed since I played at Wafcon. There are many youngsters in the tournament compared to 2014 when I was last here. There is fresh blood, everyone knows what they want and they are working hard.”
“The organisation of the tournament is very good compared to before. Things have changed and everything is progressing smoothly.”
Image source: @CAFOnline
