Super Falcons star Michelle Alozie, the hero of Nigeria’s 2024 WAFCON semi-final victory over South Africa, has shared why she chose to represent Nigeria instead of the USA.
The 28-year-old defender, born in Houston to parents from Imo State, debuted for Nigeria in 2021 at the USWNT Summer Series.
Speaking to BBC Pidgin, Alozie revealed her deep connection to her heritage, saying, “I just knew that I always wanted to have a Nigerian name on a Nigerian jersey.”

She described the team’s camp as “an automatic sisterhood,” fueled by shared culture. Alozie also praised the passionate Nigerian fans, noting, “They bring us a lot of support and encouragement. It’s amazing to play for them and something bigger than us.”
On the pitch, Alozie’s 94th-minute stunner against South Africa secured Nigeria’s spot in the 2024 WAFCON final, redeeming their 2022 loss and cementing her legacy as a key player for the Super Falcons.
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