In what appears to be a rumor and unconfirmed report, shocking reports emerged on Monday morning suggesting that six-time African Women’s Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, has allegedly announced her retirement from international football.
The timing is particularly startling, coming just one day before Nigeria’s Super Falcons face reigning champions South Africa in a high-stakes semifinal clash at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
According to multiple sources, the 30-year-old striker allegedly posted a message on her official Facebook page, announcing her decision to bow out of the international scene after the current WAFCON campaign.
Asisat Oshoala, who has been instrumental in Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football for over a decade is said to have written a farewell message that sparked speculation about her future with the national team.
However, closer checks reveal no such post currently exists on any of her verified social media accounts, including Facebook, Twitter (X), or Instagram.
The player herself has not publicly commented on the matter either fueling uncertainty and raising the possibility of a false or hacked post, or even complete fabrication.
Asisat Oshoala Finding Form in 2024WAFCON
Oshoala can be said to be struggling with her goalscoring form in the ongoing tournament. So far, she has only scored one goal which was the Super Falcons’ opening strike of the competition against Tunisia.
She has also been rotated out of the starting lineup in recent matches, including Nigeria’s 5-0 quarterfinal demolition of Zambia.
Still, her influence in the dressing room and her experience at the highest level remain invaluable to coach Justin Madugu’s squad.
NFF Yet to Confirm or Deny
As of the time of this report, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has not issued any official statement regarding the rumored retirement. Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu is also yet to address the matter publicly.
A Legacy Like No Other
If confirmed, Asisat Oshoala’s exit would mark the end of a glittering international career spanning over 13 years, including:
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Five WAFCON titles
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Multiple World Cup appearances
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More than 30 international goals
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Record six-time CAF African Women’s Footballer of the Year
She remains the most decorated female player in African football history, with a resume that includes stints at Liverpool, Arsenal, Barcelona Femeni and currently, American club side, Bay FC.
What’s Next?
Until Asisat Oshoala speaks publicly or the NFF offers clarity, this remains a rumor. Fans are advised to treat the news with caution until confirmed by official channels.
For now, the Super Falcons must maintain focus on the task at hand: defeating South Africa and securing a place in the 2024 WAFCON final.
Whether Oshoala plays a part in that or not, her legacy with the Nigerian national team is already cemented in gold.
