Super Falcons striker Oparanozie retires from football

Nigeria’s forward Desire Oparanozie (R) jumps for the ball during the France 2019 Women’s World Cup Group A football match between Nigeria and South Korea, on June 12, 2019, at the Alpes Stadium in Grenoble, central-eastern France. (Photo by Jean-Pierre Clatot / AFP)

Super Falcons striker Desire Oparanozie has officially announced her retirement from football at all levels.

Oparanozie on Wednesday confirmed that she will be hanging up her boots for both country and club in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).

“To my fans, family, and friends, thank you for the show of love and support over the years. It’s time to take a bow, as I believe there’s no better time than now,” she wrote.

“I am officially announcing my retirement from professional football for both club and country.

“To every team and coach I have played for, to every mate I have played alongside, and to every opponent I have played against, thank you all for being part of this incredible journey.

“Thank you football, thank you Nigeria,” the vastly experienced Super Falcons attacker posted.

Oparanozie last featured in a football match during the 2023 Women’s World Cup that took place in Australia and New Zealand last month.

In her final appearance, the 29-year-old failed to score a spotkick after coming on as a substitute as the Super Falcons fell 4-2 via penalty shootout to the Three Lionesses of England in the second round of the World Cup.

Having made her senior team debut for the Super Falcons of Nigeria in 2010, she went on to play at the 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023 editions of the Women’s World Cup.

She was part of the Super Falcons teams which won the 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titles.

Oparanozie kicked off her club career at