Former Sundowns goalkeeper Asa Rabalao celebrates success as youth coach

Rabalao has so far enjoyed a successful five months leading the Sundowns Ladies Under-17 team alongside former Banyana Banyana international Rhoda Mulaudzi.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Rabalao says part of her ambition this season is to identify new talent and help more girls to get into football.

"For the past five months, it has been a great experience. I had a great season gelling in and transitioning from being a player to a coach. The adjustment was difficult because I had to move from playing to coaching due to an injury which forced me to quit playing and start a new career as a coach. What I am looking forward to this season is growing women's football particularly on the development side"

Rabalao’s partnership with Mulaudzi has been impactful for the Under-17s, who won the CAF Gift tournament in Zimbabwe in December.  

The former Sundowns shot-stopper says playing in Zimbabwe was key in allowing their players to experience continental football.

The 28-year-old shares her future coaching plans, stating that she aims to complete her coaching education and aspires to go abroad to further develop her skills.

"Obviosuly I would like to see myself reach the top level, whether it's on the development side or with the national team. My aim is to complete my football education, gain the necessary knowledge, and become a better coach. I would also love to go overseas to gain coaching experience, since I wasn't able to get that experience as a player."