Nigerian football legend and former Super Falcons captain Onome Ebi has officially retired from professional football after over two decades Her legacy includes record caps six Womens World Cups multiple WAFCON titles and a pledge to mentor future generations .
On September 17 2025 Nigerian football icon Onome Ebi announced her retirement from professional football The former Super Falcons captain ended a career that stretched over two decades During that time she rose to international acclaim as one of Africas most decorated women in the game .
In her farewell message shared on social media Ebi reflected on the journey She expressed gratitude for the opportunities challenges and lessons that shaped her into the person she is today Although she is stepping away from active play she emphasized that her purpose in the game continues She pledged to give back to the sport to guide the younger generation and to remain a strong voice for players across Africa and beyond .
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Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Onome Ebi began her professional journey in Nigeria playing with Omidiran Babes for seven years starting in 2001 She later joined Bayelsa Queens where her performances caught attention beyond the Nigerian league Her talent and determination eventually opened doors for her abroad .
Her first move to Europe came when she joined Swedish sides Pitea IF and later Djurgardens IF These transfers introduced her to competitive European football and marked the beginning of her international career Over the years she would go on to play in Turkey Belarus China Spain and Israel Each move highlighted her adaptability to different styles of play and her ability to thrive in diverse football cultures .
One of the standout periods of her club career was in Belarus with FC Minsk There she won multiple domestic titles including the league championship the national cup and the super cup These achievements added another layer to her growing reputation as a dependable and successful defender .
International Career and Records
Ebi made her ” debut ” for the Nigerian womens national team the Super Falcons in 2003 Over the next twenty years she became a mainstay of the “squad and went on to set records that remain unmatched She made 109 appearances for Nigeria making her the most capped female player in the nations history .
In continental competition she was equally outstanding Ebi lifted theWomens Africa Cup of Nations on four occasions ” winning ” titles in 2010 2014 2016 and 2018 These victories cemented her status as a dominant force in African football and a leader within the SuperFalcons squad .
Legacy at Club Level
Ebis club career was as colorful as her international journey She displayed consistency and resilience in leagues across different continents Her experiences in Sweden Turkey Belarus China Israel and Spain reflect a player who could adapt seamlessly to new environments and competitive challenges .
In Belarus her time at “FC Minsk stands out as she collected multiple trophies and proved vital to the teams defensive strength Later in her career she returned to Nigeria to join Naija Ratels FC in Abuja This move was significant as it demonstrated her desire to invest her wealth of experience back into Nigerian domestic football and inspire young talents at home .
Themes of Leadership Dedication and Giving Back
Throughout her ” career ” Onome Ebi stood out not just for her achievements but also for her leadership qualities and dedication As captain of the Super Falcons she carried the responsibility of motivating her teammates and representing her country with dignity and pride Her resilience and commitment were admired both on and off the field .
Her retirement message highlighted her vision of purpose beyond playing football She spoke passionately about mentoring younger players advocating for the growth of womens football and using her voice to bring about positive change She has become a symbol of endurance proving that age is not a barrier as she remained competitive at the highest level even into her forties .
In the 2023 World Cup Ebi made history by playing at the age of 40 further solidifying her reputation as a model of discipline and professionalism For aspiring athletes her journey stands as evidence that hard work dedication and a strong mindset can extend a career well beyond conventional limits .
Conclusion The End of an Era
The retirement of Onome Ebi marks the conclusion of one of the most remarkable careers in African womens football She departs the stage with records that will stand for generations Most capped Nigerian female player first African to play in six World Cups multiple continental championships and countless contributions at the club level .
Her story will be remembered not only for the trophies and milestones but also for how she carried herself with grace professionalism and determination While she may have hung up her boots her influence on the game will continue to resonate She has signaled her commitment to mentorship advocacy and supporting the next generation of footballers .
For Nigeria and for Africa Onome Ebis career represents the possibilities of womens football and the heights that can be achieved with resilience and passion Her legacy will inspire countless young players who dream of following in her footsteps making her retirement not an ending but the beginning of a new chapter for the sport she loves .