Super Falcons defender and 2024 WAFCON hero, Michelle Alozie, has shared the heartfelt reason she chose to represent Nigeria over the United States, despite being born and raised in Houston, Texas.
Born to Nigerian parents from Imo State, the 28-year-old defender explained that there was always a strong emotional pull toward the green and white jersey.
In a candid interview with BBC pigin, Alozie revealed that playing for Nigeria was always a dream deeply rooted in her identity, heritage, and family values.
Although the Houston Dash player had the option to play for the United States, she chose Nigeria, a decision she said came naturally.
“I just knew that I always wanted to have a Nigerian name on a Nigerian jersey,” she said.
“It’s amazing to play for them and for something bigger than us.”
For her, the decision went beyond football. It was about embracing her roots and honouring her background, something that deeply resonated with her family and gave greater meaning to her international career.
Alozie described the Super Falcons camp as more than just a team; it’s a family.
She highlighted the powerful bond she shares with her teammates, noting that the cultural familiarity among them made it easier to connect and thrive.
“There’s an automatic sisterhood,” Alozie revealed as she described how shared language, food, music , and jokes helped her feel at home right away.
That sense of belonging has helped her perform with more passion, knowing she plays for something greater than herself.
Alozie has been a standout performer at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s journey to the final.
After a dominant performance in the quarter-finals, where Nigeria crushed Zambia 5-0, the 28-year-old star etched her name into history with a dramatic 94th-minute winner against rivals South Africa in the semi-final.
That goal not only sealed Nigeria’s place in the WAFCON final but also served as revenge for the painful 2022 defeat against the Banyana Banyana.
With the final fast approaching, Alozie is determined to help Nigeria win its 10th WAFCON title.
The Super Falcons remain the most successful women’s national team in Africa, and Alozie is eager to add her name to that illustrious legacy.
For her, the journey is not just about football; it is about representing her Nigerian heritage with pride, honour, and purpose.
