In what marks the close of a glorious chapter in Nigerian and African women’s football, Super Falcons legend Onome Ebi has announced her official retirement from professional football.
In a heartfelt message shared via her official X account, Ebi wrote:
🎯 The Legacy: What Makes Onome Ebi a True Legend
Longest serving woman in Nigerian football history
Ebi’s international career spans over two decades. Since her debut for the Super Falcons in 2003, her dedication and consistency have set her apart.
World Cup trailblazer
She became the first African player, male or female, to play in six FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments — 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023. At over 40 years old, she still answered the call, bringing leadership and experience to the team.
Exceptional continental success
Her honours with Nigeria include four Women’s Africa Cup of Nations titles in 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018. Her name is etched in gold among the greats of the tournament.
Role model and mentor
Beyond her accolades, Ebi’s presence was always more than football. She consistently mentored younger players, used her voice to advocate for fairness and respect in women’s football, and showed courage in being true to herself and her roots.
⚽ Career Highlights
Ebi played for clubs in Nigeria, Sweden, Turkey, Belarus, China, and Spain. Her journey across continents brought her face-to-face with the evolving game and strengthened her role as a global ambassador for Nigerian football.
She earned over 100 caps for Nigeria, making her the most capped female player in the country’s history. Even well into her 40s, her commitment and fitness levels remained unmatched, proving that age is no barrier to excellence.
🌱 Retirement, But Not an Exit
Ebi made it clear that while she’s retiring from playing, she isn’t walking away from football. Her next chapter is about giving back to the game – mentoring, guiding, and speaking for the next generation of Nigerian footballers.
She wants to be a voice, and with everything she’s done and seen in her career, she’s earned the right to be heard. Her retirement is not an exit but a new beginning, where her experience can impact the sport off the pitch just as much as it did on it.
🙌 Why She Deserves All the Flowers
Onome Ebi is not just a legend because of her longevity or the titles she’s won. She is a legend because of how she carried herself with grace, strength, and unshakable pride in wearing the green and white.
She reminded Nigerians that our women can stand tall on any stage, compete with the world’s best, and still come back home with their heads held high.
As she steps into a new chapter, Nigeria celebrates a woman who gave everything for the badge. A true leader. A trailblazer. A national treasure.
Thank you, Onome Ebi, for the memories, the moments, and the legacy. You may be hanging up your boots, but you will forever remain a symbol of excellence in Nigerian football.
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