Onome Ebi Hails Ashleigh Plumptre as Worthy Successor in Nigeria’s No. 5 Jersey
Former Super Falcons captain Onome Ebi has praised Ashleigh Plumptre as the perfect successor to Nigeria’s iconic No. 5 jersey, which she proudly wore for two decades.
Taking to her X handle, Ebi wrote:
“Best replacement for my #5 jersey, which means a lot to me after 20 years. Same birthday 8 May, just a name change from Ebi to Plumptre ⚽️. The energy, discipline, consistency, and dedication are almost the same . I am proud ⚽️. The legacy continues ✅️.”
Responding to the tweet, Plumptre wrote “ Grateful! Thank you for the legacy you led and continue to leave .”
Ebi’s Legendary Career
In the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), few players can match Onome Ebi’s longevity and impact. The central defender remains the most capped player in the tournament’s history, with seven appearances: 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2022.
Ebi’s consistency, leadership, and defensive solidity helped Nigeria dominate women’s football in Africa, winning four WAFCON titles during her career (2010, 2014, 2016, 2018). She also represented Nigeria in five FIFA Women’s World Cups and earned over 100 international caps.
“As the oldest member of the group, I had a moral duty: to motivate the young players and set an example. You don’t stay in the national team with your past; you stay there with your discipline,” Ebi said in 2022 during her final WAFCON appearance in Morocco.
Although Nigeria did not win the 2022 title, Ebi’s dedication and leadership remain a shining example for future generations of Super Falcons.
Plumptre Carrying the Torch
Ashleigh Plumptre, who is currently starring for Nigeria at the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco, has been widely recognised as one of the tournament’s standout defenders. The Al-Ittihad captain was recently named in the Team of the Group Stage for her commanding performances and calm leadership.
Born in Leicester, England, Plumptre represented England at youth levels (U-15, U-17, U-19, and U-23) before committing to Nigeria, her father’s homeland, ahead of the 2022 WAFCON. Since then, the 27-year-old has become a key player for the Super Falcons, blending strong defensive skills with an ability to contribute in attack.
Plumptre’s club career has seen her play for Notts County, LA Galaxy OC, and Leicester City, where she helped them win the FA Women’s Championship in the 2020/21 season. Now at Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, she continues to show her quality, scoring key goals and leading by example.
As Nigeria prepares to face South Africa in the WAFCON semi-final on Wednesday, Plumptre’s rise has earned praise from fans and legends alike. With Ebi’s blessing, the No. 5 jersey’s proud legacy is in safe hands.
