Naledi Kgapane (left) proudly displays the 2026 Winter National School Sport Championships trophy after helping the Limpopo U15 girls’ team lift the national title in East London.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Her name means “star,” and at just 13 years old, Naledi Kgapane is already living up to it.
The talented youngster from Medingen Village has emerged as one of Limpopo’s brightest football prospects after helping the province win the 2026 Winter National School Sport Championships in East London.
The Kgapane High School learner earned her place in the Limpopo U15 girls’ squad after impressing selectors at the provincial trials in Polokwane before playing her part in the team’s title-winning campaign.
Limpopo also enjoyed success in the U17 girls’ category, where the provincial team finished third to claim the bronze medal, underlining the province’s growing strength in girls’ football.
While many players her age are still developing in junior football, Naledi is already competing in the SAFA Women’s League for Sisters FC, where the versatile youngster continues to impress against senior opposition.
Her coach, Monica Mathunsi, believes Naledi’s maturity and football intelligence set her apart.
“She is a special talent. She is versatile, fearless and plays with confidence beyond her years. She has already registered an assist for the senior team, and we believe she has a very bright future,” Mathunsi said.
Naledi’s football journey began at TES Development in Kgapane Township under renowned youth developer Tshepo Sebopetsa, whose academy has become one of Limpopo’s most respected talent factories. It was there that Mathunsi spotted the youngster before bringing her to Sisters FC.
With a national title already under her belt at just 13, Naledi is proving that her name is more than just a name—it is a glimpse of what could be a shining future in South African women’s football.