Former Nigeria international, Desire Oparanozie noted that Africa’s representation at the World Cup has grown significantly.
From two teams in 2011 to four in 2023 — with three African sides reaching the knockout stage in 2023.
“That shows the gap with traditional powerhouses is closing,” she said.
She described the period between 2016 and now as one of rapid professionalisation, pointing to increased participation figures and expanded global investment in the women’s game.
Having retired two years ago, Oparanozie admitted leaving the sport during its commercial upswing was bittersweet but satisfying.
“I left the stage when women’s football was gaining more global exposure and investment, leading to better pay. Though the pay gap still exists, I retired knowing the sport was on an upward trajectory.”
She expressed interest in administration and player development, backing FIFA’s efforts to support ex-players in transitioning into post-playing careers.
“I’m most interested in player development programmes and administration — helping to build stronger, competent and effective organisations. Coaching courses and structured development pathways will improve training quality and tactical knowledge across all levels.”
Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. On the back of domestic engagement since 2008, he began his international career journey at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.
