Onome Ebi reflects on career longevity, earns Desire Oparanozie praise

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Nigeria senior women’s national team captain Onome Ebi has recounted her excitement on how she has been able to stay in shape an compete at the age of 40 in the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The 40-year-old is the oldest ever Nigeria player, and is also marking a sixth African record extending feat for both men and women, featuring at the FIFA Women’s World Cup this year.

The former Omidiran Babes and Bayelsa Queens product has gone on to make over 100 appearances for the nine-time African champions since her senior debut in 2003.

“My target has always been the same. I am going for my sixth World Cup which I never saw coming but I believe that’s what hard work, being dedicated and discipline can get you to the top and to the highest,” Ebi told Brila FM.

“I am looking forward to a wonderful competition. I am super blessed and excited. It’s just the grace of God that I have not being injured and still going. I am happy and fulfilled.”

Meanwhile, her teammate, Desire Oparanozie says it is an incredible feat for Ebi to be attending her sixth Women’s World Cup.

“It’s really amazing. I don’t have the right words to describe this achievement. It’s incredible and not an easy feat to achieve. She is 40 and still going stronger.

“This just goes to show that age is not a factor. It’s the state of mind that keeps you performing and that she has exhibited over these years and I really commend her for how far she has someone and where she is at the moment. Kudos to her.”