Oshoala, Plumptre lead Super Falcons tribute to Desire Oparanozie retirement

Nigeria women’s national team players have penned their respective heartfelt tributes to a legend of the game, Desire Oparanozie as she bids farewell to the beautiful round leather game.

Oparanozie confirmed her retirement on her official social media account on Wednesday morning.

The 29-year-old was the captain of the historic Falcons team that made past the group stage of a FIFA World Cup on France 2019  for the first rime in 20 years. She was part of the World Cup squad that finished unbeaten in the group stage for the first time ever.

She has featured in four FIFA Women’s World and won four Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with the team. She was the winner of the golden boot award at the 2014 continental showpiece.

Following her statement on X, her teammates  took over socia media platforms to wish well as tributes keep flooding in from football lovers.

“A true leader in all its forms. So grateful to have played alongside you and learnt from your courage in always representing us and those who come after us. Big love to you always @oparanozie9” Ashleigh Plumptre.

“Congrats on an amazing career and good luck with the new journey,” Asisat Oshoala wrote on her IG stories.

“Thanks for everything. Happy I played with and against you in football. You taught me a lot,” Nnadozie.

“Proud moment the Bull. Good luck in all,” Super Falcons captain Onome Ebi wrote.

“Thank you so much for being an inspiration to female child myself included, thank you for all your Contributions on and off the Field. You are a Legend and will continue to be our Heroine!!! Happy retirement Big 9,” Super Falcons newbie, Abiodun Deborah said.

“All your hard work has finally paid off! Enjoy having the time to do all the things you’ve always wanted to do. Happy retirement, big 9 @oparanozie,” Halimatu Ayinde wrote.

“@desireoparanozie thank you  and good luck in the future,” wrote Ngozi Okobi.

“Hard to accept  wishing you all the best in life momma, gonna miss everything about you on the field of play. Gonna miss those words of encouragement.  I know for sure you have so many better plans ahead. Success THE BULL. Love you forever,” Chiamaka Nnadozie.

“Hey DIDI!! Thank yoau for sharing your expertise with all of us… I personally enjoyed all of the time we’ve worked together,  and I will really miss you. Super excited to see what comes next for you, enjoy your second act. You’ve earned it.” — Francisca Ordega.

“Good luck on your new adventure and thank you for a wonderful career,” Rita Chikwelu.