Oshoala Honours Super Falcons Legends for Paving the Way

Nigerian football icon, Asisat Oshoala has expressed heartfelt gratitude to three former Super Falcons greats—Perpetua Nkwocha, Precious Dede, and Rita Chikwelu—crediting them for clearing the path that enabled her rise in the national team.

Speaking during an interview on Arise News following Nigeria’s victory at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, Oshoala praised the trio for their enduring legacies and inspirational careers. She described them as foundational figures whose efforts helped shape the Super Falcons into the formidable team she eventually joined.

“Players like Perpetua Nkwocha are still leading the charts in club goals,” Oshoala noted, adding that the likes of legendary goalkeeper Precious Dede and midfielder Rita Chikwelu had made lasting impressions on Nigerian women’s football. “Those are the people that actually paved the way for someone like me.”

Oshoala, who has played for top clubs including Liverpool, Arsenal, and Barcelona, also reflected on the privilege of playing alongside some of these icons before their retirement.

Now at Bay FC in the United States, the 30-year-old recently added a sixth CAF Women’s Player of the Year award to her glittering career résumé.

Her tribute has been widely praised as a gracious nod to the contributions of past players, underlining the importance of legacy and mentorship in Nigerian football.