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Women in Gaming: Sportingbet’s Siddiqa Samsoodien on defying discrimination while smiling

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7 years ago

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As part of South Africa’s Women’s Month, Clarion Gaming continues to advance the role of women in the industry across the region and internationally with vital insights from some of the industry’s key female figures ahead of this year’s ICE Africa, which takes place on 24 and 25 October at the Sandton Convention Centre, South Africa.

Exploring the challenges facing women in the industry, Siddiqa Samsoodien, CS Supervisor at Sportingbet South Africa, explained: “As a young woman, I have personally faced many challenges in the workplace environment and these challenges grew increasingly difficult once I became a mother. Being in a sports environment, a lot of men automatically assume that they know more than you.

‘Who scored the first goal in the game?’, ‘What is the meaning of handicap?’, men ask women these questions all the time in the hope that they will have the opportunity to correct us as we will probably, in their opinion, get it wrong. This is wrong!

“In the face of this, our response has to be with confidence, as we know that our understanding is always on guard,” she continued. “We make it our mission to strive and prove that we are worthy of being part of the gaming industry as women. On more than one occasion once I open my mouth and discuss the transfer window or Chelsea’s chances of winning the league, men will look at me with shock – surprise!”

Commenting on the path to her current role at Sportingbet, one of Africa’s fastest growing online sportsbetting platforms, Siddiqa said: “It has been a constant challenge to earn respect from men and especially male customers – there is a feeling of having to prove yourself in order to be respected in your position. It should be known that I would not be in the position I am in if I didn’t not only know the material but also have a passion for it. Most times, we as women have to deal with the bias and discrimination on a daily basis and we have to do it while smiling.

“It is unfair, but I have learnt how to handle this and learnt I don’t need to be able to throw some banter around the office to be taken seriously – it does help though. The best advice I could give myself in the past is to let your work do the talking. I know who I am and what I am capable of and this is a lesson I hope to teach my female colleagues and daughter one day. I am essentially very lucky to be a young professional in this day and age and, more importantly, I am lucky to have supporting male colleagues who not only believe in me but also invest in me. Having a support system that encourages your growth and listens to your ideas makes the world of difference for women in the working world.”

Discussing the day-to-day challenges within the industry, she stated: “Sometimes, I still sit back when I have an idea and think to myself, ‘is this going to add value’? I think this is one my biggest challenges and something that I personally try to overcome on a daily basis. Yes, I have worked with men who have undermined me in the past, but I am now working with, and surrounded by, great male and female colleagues and, even though it’s a slow personal development, there is improvement. A woman and her self-doubt kill more dreams than men ever could.”

She continued: “As women, we need to cut the self-doubt in half and double the confidence, as it plays a big role in success. Everyone has to earn credibility, but, realistically, it is much tougher for women. Luckily, we know how to work hard and look good doing it. We practically have to put in twice the amount of effort to get the same amount of acknowledgement from our male co-workers. Unfortunately, this seems to be the all-round reality, but it is important to look at a challenge and use it as your motivation to grow.

“As women and mothers, we have to face a great deal of challenges and, as exhausting as it can be, it is good, because this helps build character. It promotes personal and professional development. We as women need to realize that we have so much to offer and times aren’t just changing, they have changed. Even though the bias is still there, and will probably always be, the way we deal with it is so important. I am very fond of the saying ‘you are your own worst enemy’ – we as women are already facing so many challenges, let’s not add self-doubt to that.”

Siddiqa concluded: “My advice to aspiring young professionals and especially young females in a mostly male dominated industry is to NOT GIVE UP.  Always stay true to yourself. Work hard and always put your best foot forward.

“Even when you are being undermined or doubted, it is important to not let the opinions and predisposed thoughts of others hinder you from doing, and being, the best. Set goals for yourself and do not let anyone get in the way of you achieving them. Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your opinions. Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’.”

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South Africa Book Spot at 2026 World Cup After Crucial Win Over Rwanda

Report by ISRAEL ORJI

Published

22 hours ago

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October 14, 2025

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South Africa beat Rwanda to qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup
South Africa beat Rwanda to qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup

South Africa has officially secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, following a commanding 3-0 victory over Rwanda in their final Group C fixture.

This marks Bafana Bafana’s return to the World Cup finals through qualification for the first time since they hosted in 2010.

Decisive Victory, Turbulent Qualifying Run

South Africa’s qualification was not without controversy. Earlier in the campaign, FIFA stripped Bafana Bafana of a 2-0 win over Lesotho, converting it into a 3-0 loss after ruling that midfielder Teboho Mokoena was ineligible to play.
Despite this setback, the team showed resilience and integrity, clinching the win over Rwanda to seal their place in the World Cup.

Aftermath & Implications in Group C

The sanctions imposed earlier reshaped the dynamics of Group C, opening paths for Nigeria and other teams to capitalize.
With the point deduction applied, South Africa’s qualification became even more critical.

What’s Next

South Africa will now prepare for the global stage, while other teams in Group C aim to finish their qualifying campaigns on a high note. Nigeria, the Super Eagles, now have renewed hope after the point deduction. If they win their remaining matches and favorable results fall their way, they could advance either via group positioning or through the playoffs.

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Breaking: Osimhen Runs Riot as Super Eagles Crush Benin in Crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

Report By ORJI ISRAEL

Published

22 hours ago

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October 14, 2025

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Victor Osimhen and FIFA World Cup Qualifier
Victor Osimhen

Victor Osimhen lit up the pitch as Nigeria’s Super Eagles recorded a commanding victory over the Benin Republic in a decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match, asserting their intent on the road to Qatar.

In a match full of attacking brilliance and clinical finishing, Osimhen’s performance stood out. He terrorized the Beninese defence and played a central role in Nigeria’s dominant display.

The exact scoreline and minute-by-minute details are still being confirmed, but his influence on the match was unmistakable.

Match Highlights & Tactical Notes

  • Osimhen spearheaded Nigeria’s attack, combining pace, power, and clinical finishing to keep the Benin defenders on edge throughout the night.
  • The Super Eagles maintained control in midfield and launched persistent pressure, cutting off Benin’s attempts to build meaningful attacks.
  • Nigeria’s defensive line held firm, shutting down Benin’s key outlets and limiting their opportunities to break forward.

Implications & What Next

  • This victory significantly boosts Nigeria’s chances in the World Cup qualification race, providing momentum and confidence as they push toward automatic qualification.
  • Osimhen’s form will be a key focal point for opposing teams going forward—his form is proving vital for Nigeria’s attacking threat.
  • With this kind of win, the squad’s morale and belief are likely to grow stronger, especially in high‐pressure, knockout style matches.

The Super Eagles are now looking ahead to their next fixture with renewed optimism and a sharpened competitive edge.

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Disney+ unveils new channels in South Africa

Published

3 weeks ago

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September 23, 2025

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Disney+ ESPN Africa linear channels
Disney+ - ESPN Africa linear channels

Disney+ today announced that, from 02 October 2025, the ESPN Africa linear channels will be available to South African customers at no extra cost.

Fans will have access to the two 24-hour linear ESPN channels that showcase the very best live and studio sports programming from the US and around the world, spanning major leagues and iconic competitions. 

On ESPN, a world of sport awaits Disney+ customers with the National Rugby League in Australia (Aussie Rules) and Japan’s Rugby League, plus top European football action including the Scottish Professional Football League, English Football League, Dutch Eredivisie, German Football Association Cup and Turkey’s SüperLig, along with the Saudi Pro League.

ESPN 2 brings the biggest American sports, showcasing the NBA (National Basketball Association), NFL (National Football League), MLB (Major League Baseball) and NHL (National Hockey League), along with women’s and college competitions such as the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League), NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) and ESPN College Football. 

Both ESPN channels also broadcast studio shows capturing the latest news and analysis from across American sport and football including “ESPN FC”, “First Take”, “The Pat McAfee” Show” and “SportsCenter”. Critically acclaimed and celebrated documentaries and original programming are also available, including ESPN’s award-winning library of 30 for 30 films.  

Says Diego Londono, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Networks & Sports, The Walt Disney Company EMEA: “At Disney, we are committed to delivering world-class sports and entertainment to customers across the region. The launch of the ESPN Africa linear channels on Disney+ in South Africa reflects our strategy to reach sports fans across multiple platforms and connect with new audiences, bringing iconic sporting moments together with the expansive and much-loved entertainment already available.” 

Adds Kyle de Klerk, Director: Sports for The Walt Disney Company Africa: “ESPN’s unparalleled content offering will provide Disney+ customers with access to the greatest historic and live sports programming from some of the most iconic leagues and events in the world. Fans will be able to enjoy thrilling action right away as the European Football season and the NFL (National Football League), have just launched, with existing milestones to look forward to in 2025 including the start of the NBA (National Basketball Association), NHL (National Hockey League) as well as NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) football and basketball leagues.”   

Disney+ has something for everyone — from blockbuster movies and hit series to much-loved Originals. Customers can enjoy FX’s “The Bear”, “The Kardashians”, “Only Murders in the Building”, “The Simpsons” and much more. The ESPN Africa linear channels will join a vast content catalogue from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and general entertainment, which also features content from Hulu, FX, Searchlight Pictures and 20th Century Studios. 

All Disney+ Premium and Mobile plan customers with an 18+ content rating in South Africa will have access to the linear channels. 

In addition to Disney+ in South Africa, ESPN is available on MultiChoice’s DStv and StarTimes across Africa. 

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