Olayiwola Matthew
Super Falcons forward and Nigerian football icon, Asisat Oshoala, has debunked reports claiming she is set to retire from international football after the ongoing 2024/25 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Soccer ball
The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year denied ever making such a statement, distancing herself from a viral Facebook post attributed to her.
Clarifying the matter, a member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and women’s football stakeholder, Aisha Falode, disclosed that the Facebook page which published the retirement statement was not operated by Oshoala but by an impersonator.
“The Facebook account is cloned,” Falode explained. “Asisat has denied ownership of that page and stated clearly that she never authored the post suggesting she would quit international football after the WAFCON.”
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The controversial post had made rounds on social media over the weekend, claiming the 30-year-old striker would bow out after the tournament to “start a new chapter” and “pave the way for younger players.” Soccer ball
The message, which praised Oshoala’s legacy and career achievements, stirred a wave of reactions among fans, journalists, and fellow athletes.
However, Falode urged the public and media outlets to be cautious and verify sources before spreading such sensitive news, especially concerning national icons like Oshoala.
“It’s unfortunate that someone would attempt to mislead the public using Asisat’s identity. We advise everyone to rely on verified platforms and accounts,” she added.
Oshoala, who currently plays for Bay FC in the United States’ National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated female footballers.
She has represented the country at multiple FIFA Women’s World Cups and Olympic Games, and her leadership remains vital as the Super Falcons continue their WAFCON 2024/25 campaign.
The NFF is reportedly looking into the impersonation incident and may engage relevant authorities to address the growing concern of social media identity theft among athletes.
As of press time, the real Asisat Oshoala had not issued a personal statement on the matter, but close associates affirm she remains focused on helping Nigeria reclaim the continental title in Morocco.