Cynthia Shonga, the trusted goalkeeper for the Mighty Warriors, was on the brink of quitting the game but has now secured a move to South Africa Women’s team, Richmond United.

Despite not yet having her international clearance, Shonga is already in the neighboring country, actively training with the team after completing most of the necessary paperwork.

Reflecting on her unexpected move, Shonga shared, “The opportunity came when I least expected it. The burden of playing without adequate compensation had taken a toll on me, and I was considering giving up on football altogether. But then, the Herentals move came along, and I found myself torn.”

She continued, “Perhaps it was part of God’s plan for me to endure challenging times before being blessed with something greater.”

Earlier this year, Shonga made headlines when she announced her intention to quit the game due to remuneration issues at her previous club, Harare City. Her contract with the club had expired, and she was owed several months’ dues.

Despite contemplating early retirement, Shonga secured a transfer to the reigning Women Soccer League champions, Herentals Queens, in February. However, with the ZWSL 2024 season yet to begin, the 24-year-old star had to join the Hollywoodbets Super League side without playing for the ‘School Girls.’

Shonga’s journey began in 2018 when she made her international debut at the Region V Games in Botswana. In 2019, she further established herself by debuting in the COSAFA Under-20 Women’s tournament under the mentorship of Rosemary Mugadza. Her pivotal role in the Young Mighty Warriors’ journey to the semi-finals, including a 4-0 victory against Namibia in the quarter-finals, showcased her talent.

Last year, following an 18-month FIFA ban, Shonga solidified her position as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper during the Mighty Warriors’ return to action. Her authority was evident at the COSAFA Women’s Cup in South Africa.