Nigerian football enthusiasts, taking to the platform formerly known as Twitter, have passionately called upon the esteemed Super Falcons star, Onome Ebi, to consider retiring from the sport.
Ebi, a seasoned defender, has proudly represented her country in a myriad of African tournaments and international competitions, etching her name in the annals of Nigerian football history.
Having recently showcased her unwavering dedication at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, Ebi, now a remarkable 40 years of age, has become the oldest female player in Africa to partake in the prestigious event.
In light of her illustrious career, fans have taken to social media to express their heartfelt admiration for her achievements and to kindly suggest that she consider retiring from the sport.
It will be recalled Onome is among the 24 players invited for next week’s 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations first round, first leg qualifying match against Sao Tome and Principe.
Nine-time African champions Falcons host the Sao Tome and Principe girls at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos September 22, with the return leg scheduled for September 26, according to a statement from the Nigeria Football Federation’s Communications Director, Ademola Olajire.
The winners of this fixture are eligible to confront the winners of another first round fixture between Cape Verde and Liberia, at the second-round stage slated for November 27 to December 5.
With her inaugural Women’s World Cup appearance dating back to 2003, Ebi has since graced numerous tournaments, including an impressive six African Women’s Championships, securing victory in four of those esteemed competitions.
The fervent voices of Nigerian supporters resound, acknowledging her remarkable contributions to the team and urging her to embark on a well-deserved retirement.
A fan said on X, “Lol. Onome Ebi refused to retire from the Super Falcons. Many of these people don’t know when to stop and we know what ends it.”
Another said, “Onome herself should know it’s time to give way for the younger ones but she doesn’t want to quit when the ovation is high, that is if it’s even still high.”
Another fan reacted, “Heheh, in fact, na she supposed to first announce before Oparanozie 😅”
Another replied, “Not just Onome there are 2 or 3 more that are no longer as effective in the squad but if the coach keeps calling them and they respond nothing we can do.”
A fan commented, “Onome Ebi should read the room and take a bow from this team; she lacks match fitness and sharpness. It’s a shame she’s still getting called up.”
Meanwhile, Ebi has finally found a new club, putting an end to her year-long search for a new home.
But Onome’s announcement came with an unexpected twist as she locked her fans out of the celebration.
The 40-year-old veteran Super Falcons defender, who recently attended the ninth FIFA Women’s World Cup, FIFAWWC, unattached, has joined Nigeria Women’s Football League, NWFL, side Naija Ratels.
