Simba Queens striker Jentrix Shikangwa has opened up on the challenges players face in professional football especially outside the African continent.Shikangwa has been one of the privileged women footballers in the country to have played professional football outside the country.She featured for Turkish side Fatih Karagumruk, who signed her after she managed to become the top scorer while turning out for Vihiga Queens.The forward would then sign for Simba Queens in September 2022 and would last in their books for almost a year before signing a six month contract with Chinese side Beijing Professional FC.##NAJAVA_MECA_8210017##She returned to Simba Queens after the lapse of her contract.In an exclusive interview with Mozzart Sport, Shikangwa revealed the difficulties she faced especially in her two stints outside the continent“Sometimes it’s not easy for those playing professional football. We face various challenges that sometimes those who have not had that experience can’t understand. It starts with a language barrier if it’s a country that doesn’t speak English predominantly. There is also a huge expectation and responsibility on those of us who are foreigners in the team,” said opened up.How sisterhood works magic for Shikangwa, compatriots at Simba QueensShe added that taking the blame in case of a loss is a normal occurrence.“When the team loses, we take greater responsibility and often get to be blamed for that. Losing takes a toil on us and for that we have to work maybe twice as hard as others to be on the safer side,” she addedDespite the struggles Shikangwa is open to taking up another challenge when an opportunity to play outside the continent arises.Anami itching to follow the footsteps of his younger sister ShikangwaShe feels she has come of age and can easily handle the challenges.“When an opportunity to play outside the continent comes, I am open to assess it with the possibility of taking it. I am more mentally ready now and also just not about to give up. However, I am currently focused on helping Simba Queens compete on all fronts,” she added.She also credited the support she receives from her siblings who all play football including Naivas FC striker Derrick Anami.
