Sydney FC’s rising star Jynaya Dos Santos has showcased her talent and goal-scoring prowess on the international stage after she was recently selected to represent the Australia U20 Women’s Team in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers. Jynaya, the older sister of Indiana, played a key role in securing Australia’s qualification for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup.
Jynaya Dos Santos began her football journey at Shellharbour Junior Football Club, where her skills and passion for the game began to flourish. At Shellharbour, a notable former Sydney FC player, now WSL star, Caitlin Foord also applied her trade which provides both Jynaya and her sister inspiration to reach the top.
Dos Santos draws inspiration from two influential forwards, Mary Fowler and Vivianne Miedema, both highly regarded in the world of women’s football. Their achievements and style of play have left an indelible impact on Dos Santos, shaping her own game and motivating her to continuously improve.
Outside of football, Dos Santos finds joy in activities like running and expressing her creativity through drawing. Her multifaceted interests not only provide a balanced outlet but also contribute to her overall development as an athlete. Furthermore, Dos Santos harbours aspirations of becoming a coach, highlighting her desire to share her knowledge and inspire the next generation of players.
On the international stage, Jynaya’s talent and clinical finishing were on full display during the recent AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup qualifying campaign in Vietnam and Kyrgyzstan. Representing the Australia U20 Women’s Team, also known as the Young Matildas, Dos Santos netted an impressive three goals throughout the tournament. Her contributions came in crucial matches against Kyrgyz Republic, Lebanon, and Guam, showcasing her ability to step up when it matters most.
Of course, when you think of Jynaya Dos Santos, you assume that younger sister Indiana won’t be far off. They both enjoy a strong and harmonious partnership and their on-field chemistry has proven to be a formidable force, elevating their performances and contributing to their respective achievements. Indiana, who broke the record for the youngest-ever player in a Liberty A-League Grand Final, continues to make her own mark on the sport.
This season just passed, Jynaya Dos Santos made her debut for Sydney FC in Round One against Adelaide United. Following this she continued to train with the First Team and was unfortunate not to be called up again, had the Young Matildas not been requiring her services at the same time.
Despite her growing success in football, Dos Santos remains committed to her studies while balancing the demands of her sporting career. Currently in Year 12, she will study and then make her way to training in the evening to work with Ante Juric.
Jynaya Dos Santos’ selection in the Australia U20 Women’s Team and her exceptional performances in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers serve as a testament to her burgeoning talent and dedication to the sport. As she grows older, keep an eye on her in Sydney FC colours as she looks to cement a spot in the starting side.
