The Super Falcons faced an unfortunate exit from the 2023 Women’s World Cup, falling 4-2 on penalties against England in the Round of 16 clash on Monday morning, leaving Desire Oparanozie, her teammates and many Nigerians heartbroken.
Despite displaying so much zeal, passion, and determination throughout the match, the Falcons were left grappling with disappointment and tears due to missed penalty kicks.
Two crucial penalty misses, attributed to Michelle Alozie and Desire Oparanozie, proved to be pivotal moments that tipped the scales in favor of the Lionesses of England, securing their quarter-final berth.
Oparanozie, in particular, found herself at the center of attention after failing to convert her penalty kick, resulting in a heartfelt apology posted on her Twitter page.
With a heavy heart, Oparanozie expressed her regrets:
“Sad day! Very disappointing to have lost through penalties, and even more disappointing not to have converted mine. And for this I deeply apologise.”
However, the response from fans and supporters was overwhelming. One such response, from Uloma, emphasized that an apology was unnecessary in the first place.
Uloma highlighted the unpredictable nature of football and the understanding that shootouts are an inherent gamble.
In her words;
“Apology not accepted because it wasnât needed in the first place. Itâs football; shit happens and shootouts are a gamble. No need for apologies. You guys did a phenomenal job; you put up a good fight and exceeded expectations. We should be thanking you instead. So, thank you,”
Apology not accepted because it wasnât needed in the first place. Itâs football; shit happens and shootouts are a gamble. No need for apologies.
You guys did a phenomenal job; you put up a good fight and exceeded expectations. We should be thanking you instead. So, thank you. ???? https://t.co/z3x8vHJ13Z
— ULOMA (@ulxma) August 7, 2023
Echoing this sentiment, Ebuka Frankie chimed in, assuring Oparanozie that her apology was unwarranted.
Frankie praised the entire team for their remarkable display and expressed unwavering support for Oparanozie’s future endeavors:
“The apology is not necessary honestly but truth is, we applaud you, we appreciate you, we love you and we are proud of what you did and I pray that God will continue to strengthen you as you move on with your career! Youâre amazing thank you”
The apology is not necessary honestly but truth is, we applaud you, we appreciate you, we love you and we are proud of what you did and I pray that God will continue to strengthen you as you move on with your career! Youâre amazing thank you â¤ď¸ https://t.co/ABVVbN2dCj
— Ebuka â¤ď¸ (@frankiemindset) August 7, 2023
While others said;
Nothing to apologise for. Keep your head up ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
— Dr DĂpò AwĂłjĂdĂŠ (@OgbeniDipo) August 7, 2023
I understand that being in this situation is undoubtedly disheartening, especially after missing your penalty in the shootout. However, there's no need for you to apologize. Your dedication and effort on the field were evident, and you were among the standout performers.
YourâŚ
— IPC Justice (@ipcjustice) August 7, 2023
Proud of you. The apology isnât necessary. Anyone could have missed a penalty. Keep your heads up
— Slimfit (@iSlimfit) August 7, 2023
The Super Falcons, despite their unfortunate exit, have won the admiration and respect of their nation for their remarkable efforts on the global stage.
The overwhelming response from Nigerians reflects a deep appreciation for the team’s dedication, resilience, and exceptional performance, which will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on women’s football in Nigeria.
Nigeria striker Desire Oparanozie has apologised to the countryâs supporters after missing her penalty in the Womanâs World Cup last 16 defeat to England. For full blogs click on given below link.https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/nigeria-striker-desire-oparanozie-apologises-for-penalty-miss