Cape Town Roses forward Lithemba Samsam is leading the scoring charts at the Engen Knockout Challenge, and setting new standards in terms of her hunger for goals. Capeat6sport journalist Joshua Hendricks caught up with the young Gugs sensation.

Cape Town Roses forward Lithemba Samsam is leading the scoring charts at the Engen Knockout Challenge – and setting new standards for the under-20 Ladies Division in terms of her hunger for goals.

She started the day on 11 goals in the tournament, having already scored three hat-tricks at the Langa Stadium over the first two days, and her team has qualified for the semifinals, too, so she’s looking to add to that total 

“I’m happy to be the top scorer so far,” Lithemba told Capeat6sport journalist Joshua Hendricks. “And I’m excited to see how the rest of the tournament goes.” 

The young Gugulethu sensation has an eye for goal. Despite only being 17 years old, she’s represented the under-20 national team, Basetsana. And she actually won the Top Scorer award in the inaugural women’s edition of the Challenge last year. 

“Lithemba is someone that’s very dedicated, A very good player and a player we can rely on and trust,” said Cape Town Roses assistant coach Sibinguseni Khamlana. “As a player she makes use of her strengths: as an athlete, she’s a good runner, and is clever enough to use that to her advantage.”

Lithemba has also participated in athletics, particularly in the 1500m long distance event. But football is where her heart is.

“I’ve been with Cape Town Roses for a very long time, and I love representing my community, Gugulethu,” she said. “My dream is to one day be given a chance to move overseas and compete in the top leagues over there.”

With performances like this, she’s sure to get the chance someday. 

And in the meantime, we’ll be keeping an eye on her.

Edited by Nicklaus Kruger