Nigerian international and Montpellier forward, Ifeoma Onumonu, has called time on her professional football journey after more than twenty years in the game. The 31 year old confirmed the decision through a heartfelt post on Instagram, where she shared her gratitude and reflected on her remarkable path in football.
From Childhood Dream to Global Stage
Onumonu recalled how her love for the sport began at the age of eight, when she joined a local youth side named Magic. She described running across the large field in the club’s white, black, and green kit, not worrying about positions or tactics, but simply chasing the ball and enjoying the thrill of scoring. That pure joy, she said, stayed with her throughout her career.
Her competitive football life took shape in 2012 with the California Golden Bears, where she stood out in college soccer. By 2017 she was playing professionally with Boston Breakers, later featuring for top American clubs including Portland Thorns, Utah Royals, Reign FC, and Gotham FC. A highlight of this period came in 2023, when she helped Gotham FC lift the NWSL Championship trophy.
Nigerian Chapter and Continental Glory
Though born in California and capped by the United States at youth level, Onumonu committed to Nigeria in 2021. With the Super Falcons, she featured in the Olympic Games, the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and was part of the squad that secured a record extending 10th Africa Women’s Cup of Nations title in 2025.
Her final professional stop was with French side Montpellier, where she signed in 2024 and concluded her career.
Looking Beyond the Pitch
In her farewell message, Onumonu said she feels her journey has reached its natural conclusion. She expressed pride in her achievements, from domestic triumphs in the United States to representing Nigeria on the biggest stages.
However, she stressed that football would remain a part of her life
This is not goodbye to football, but the beginning of something new. I look forward to exploring opportunities away from playing, carrying with me the lessons and discipline the game has given me.
She went on to thank her coaches, teammates, medical staff, fans, and family for the unwavering support that carried her through the highs and lows of her career.
