By: Eugene Upah
Nigerian football icon and Super Falcons striker, Asisat Oshoala, has unequivocally dismissed widespread rumors suggesting her retirement from international football, branding the claims as “baseless” and stating firmly, “I’m still here.”
The speculation surrounding the six-time African Player of the Year’s international future intensified in recent days, with many online platforms and social media accounts circulating unverified reports. However, Oshoala, speaking to reporters in Morocco after the Super Falcons’ thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over the host nation in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), put an end to the conjectures.
“I don’t know where that came from but agenda must agend. I get it, but I’m not bothered,” Oshoala stated emphatically. “I’m still here. I’m still playing.
I’m still doing my job. That’s what I’m focused on.”
The 30-year-old forward was an active part of the Super Falcons squad that clinched their record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Morocco. While tactical decisions and recent injuries have at times limited her minutes, her presence and influence on the team remain undeniable.
Reports from reliable sources, including AIT Live, indicated that some of the retirement announcements originated from a cloned Facebook account, not directly from Oshoala herself. This misinformation quickly spread, causing a stir among fans and media alike.
Oshoala’s international career began in 2013, and she has since achieved remarkable feats, including becoming the first African player to score in three consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cups (2015, 2019, and 2023). She has been instrumental in the Super Falcons’ dominance on the continent, contributing to their WAFCON triumphs in 2014, 2016, 2018, and now 2024.
Her declaration comes as a relief to Nigerian football fans who admire her prolific goal-scoring ability, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the national team. With this clarification, Oshoala reinforces her commitment to the Super Falcons, ensuring her continued presence as a pivotal figure in African women’s football.
