2023 WWC: Oparanozie apologises to Nigerians over penalty miss
Super Falcons striker, Desire Oparanozie, has apologised to Nigerians over her missed spot kick in the nine-time African champions’ penalty shootout defeat to England in the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Nigeria crashed out of the tournament after losing 4-2 on penalties to the Three Lionesses in their round of 16 tie on Monday.
Oparanozie, who was Nigeria’s first penalty taker, shot wide from the face of the goal. Michelle Alozie also failed to convert her spot kick.
Chloe Kelly scored the decisive spot kick for England.
Reacting via her Instagram handle, Oparanozie said she was disappointed not to have converted her spot kick.
She described the day as a “sad day”, noting that it was very disappointing to have lost through penalties.
She wrote, “Sad day! Very disappointing to have lost through penalties, and even more disappointing not to have converted mine. And for this, I deeply apologise.”
Reacting to her post, Nigerians stormed her comment section to encourage her.
Kate Henshaw wrote, “Keep your head up, we are proud of you!! No shaking…. You are all heroes and we say thank you.”
Victoriainyama wrote, “Com’n darling stop pls. U all did great.…. So proud of U…. Please loan me some energy.”
