Ashleigh Plumptre: UK-Born Star Opens Up on Why She Cried After Winning WAFCON With Nigeria
- Ashleigh Plumptre’s incredible performances at left-back were pivotal in Nigeria’s 2024 WAFCON triumph
- Her emotional connection to her Nigerian heritage shone through in a tearful reflection after the Super Falcons emerged tournament winners
- Since her first call-up in 2021 under Randy Waldrum, Plumptre has become a key member of the Nigeria women's national team
Leicester-born defender Ashleigh Plumptre played a pivotal role for the Super Falcons, who claimed their 10th WAFCON title in Morocco.
The Nigerian women's national team came from two goals behind to beat the host nation 3-2 to win the coveted title.
Plumptre was resolute in the heart of the defence, particularly in the quarter-final against Zambia, where Nigeria secured a 5-0 victory.
Source: Getty Images
She showed class in the semi-final as well, as Nigeria edged out defending champions South Africa in a highly intense encounter.
The 27-year-old was voted Woman of the Match in their 1-0 win over Botswana during the preliminary rounds, as many laud her leadership and precise distribution.
Before the final against Morocco, Nigeria conceded just one goal from open play, which is a testament to Plumptre’s role in a formidable backline alongside Osinachi Ohale and Oluwatosin Demehin.
Plumptre’s journey with Nigeria began in 2021 when she received her first invite to the Super Falcons’ training camp under coach Randy Waldrum.
She had represented England youth teams at the U15, U17, U19 and U23 levels.
However, FIFA cleared her to represent the West African nation through her Yoruba grandfather, and in February 2022, she made her official debut.
She told CAF:
“Playing for Nigeria means everything to me. I've always been proud of my roots, and being able to represent that on the field is something I carry with a lot of honour."
Since then, the Al-Ittihad captain has become a key player in the Nigerian women's national team.
She was overwhelmed by emotions as soon as the referee blew the final whistle to confirm that Nigeria were champions.
Plumptre said via Victor Ademola TV, as per Kini Score:
"It's really like... Honestly, it's not about winning the trophy specifically. I said it before, it's like the journey getting to this point.
"The connection, just way bigger than me. Like, how I'm able to play. Like the shirt, part of my heritage. So powerful.
"The fans are support me and I feel the love from them. So when I cry, It's just like the power of the green and white....representing something bigger than you.”
Source: Getty Images
Oshoala addressed retirement rumours
Legit.ng earlier reported that Super Falcons superstar Asisat Oshoala has decisively addressed the rumours about her possible retirement from international football, as reports continue to go viral during and after the 2024 WAFCON that was held in Morocco..
The six-time African Player of the Year winner’s statement was clear and powerful; there are no retirement plans on the table, and she remains fully committed to the Super Falcons.
Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
