End of an era: Super Falcons star, Onome Ebi retires after six World Cups, four WAFCON titles

Super Falcons veteran and Africa’s most capped World Cup player, Onome Ebi, has announced her retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on a glittering career that spanned over two decades and elevated her into the pantheon of African football greats.

Ebi, 42, etched her name in the history books as the first African, male or female, to feature in six FIFA World Cups  2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023  a feat that underscores her remarkable longevity, consistency, and discipline at the highest level of the game.

Since making her debut for Nigeria in 2003, Ebi went on to amass 109 international appearances, scoring four goals for the Super Falcons. She anchored the team’s defense for years, becoming a dependable leader on and off the pitch.

Her commitment and influence helped Nigeria clinch the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title four times in 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018  further solidifying her place as one of the most successful African players in the women’s game.

Beyond the green and white jersey, Ebi made her mark across several leagues abroad.

She lifted two Turkish Women’s Football League titles, two Belarusian Women’s Super Cups, as well as the Belarusian Premier League and the 2014 Belarusian Women’s Cup.

Her exploits abroad highlighted not just her adaptability but also the increasing global recognition of Nigerian women footballers.

Ebi’s influence on the continent was duly acknowledged when the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) named her in the CAF Women’s Team of the Decade (2011–2020) and later in the prestigious All-time Africa Women’s Dream Team (2021). Her retirement marks the end of an era for the Super Falcons, with many football lovers hailing her as a trailblazer who opened doors for younger generations.

Confirming her retirement, Ebi expressed gratitude to fans, teammates, coaches, and the Nigerian Football Federation for their support throughout her career.

“It has been an incredible journey filled with challenges and triumphs. I am proud of what I achieved with the Super Falcons and I hope my story inspires the next generation of African footballers. It’s time to pass the torch,” she said.

From World Cup appearances to continental glory, Ebi’s career will be remembered for her resilience, leadership, and unwavering patriotism.

She leaves behind a rich legacy that ensures her name will forever be celebrated in the annals of African football.