It's a shame — Plumptre pens heartwarming message after missing Olympics squad
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Jennifer Onyinywchi Ashleigh Megan of Nigeria and Plumptre during the 2024 Women s Olympic Football qualifier third round, second leg between Nigeria and Cameroon at MKO Abiola Stadium on February 26, 2024 in Abuja, Nigeria. Photo by Mohammed Chanjo

It's a shame — Plumptre pens heartwarming message after missing Olympics squad

Faruq Ibrahim 22:08 - 06.07.2024

Super Falcons ace Ashleigh Plumptre expressed disappointment over missing Randy Waldrum's Olympics 18-woman squad.

Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has taken to social media to express her heartbreak over her inability to partake in the Paris Olympics. 

Plumptre misses Olympics to injury 

Plumptre has been an integral part of the Falcons setup since she decided to switch nationalities. She was a top performer for Nigeria at the World Cup and was integral to the qualification charge for the Olympics. 

However, she was unable to partake in the final qualifying game against South Africa, as she had suffered a foot injury with her club, Al-Nassr, and had to undergo surgery. 

Her surgery was successful, and Plumptre, who has featured in both the full-back and centre-back position for Nigeria, raced against time to make the roster for the Paris games. 

However, her recuperation did not go as quickly as she would have wished; hence, the 25-year-old was not named in Randy Waldrum’s 18-man squad to take on the world in the grand sporting spectacle. 

Super Falcons star Ashleigh Plumptre in action
Super Falcons star Ashleigh Plumptre in action

Plumptre’s statement 

Hurt over her disheartening fate, Plumptre took to social media to express her regret. She explained that she tried to push her body to make it in time but to no avail. 

However, she ensured to spur on her teammates, wishing them the best as they represent Nigeria in a few weeks. 

“Timings haven’t quite aligned to be in contention for the Olympic roster - a dream I’ve held since I can remember,” Plumptre shared on Instagram.

“Since having my surgery, I’ve worked in every area of life to put myself in the best position to recover, but one thing that’s come from this is learning how to listen to my body properly!

“While on a personal note it’s a shame to miss out. I cannot put into words my excitement and pride in knowing I’ll be watching my @nigeriasuperfalcons girls representing this flag on the Olympic stage. Go well, girls! Naija to the world.”

The Super Falcons Olympic journey kicks off on July 25th when they face Brazil. The rest of their group-stage games are against Spain and Japan on July 2

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