Former Super Falcons goalkeeper Yewande Balogun has officially announced her retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a career filled with perseverance, determination, and unexpected twists.
The 34-year-old made the announcement on Instagram, reflecting on her career with gratitude:
“My body is telling me it’s time to close this chapter and hang up the boots, but I thank God for every step of this journey. I’m forever grateful to the beautiful game and all it has given me, so here’s to continuing to find ways to give right back.”
Yewande Balogun’s retirement message on Instagram.
A Career Defined by Resilience
Balogun’s path to professional football was anything but typical. Born and raised in the U.S., she initially represented the U.S. U14 national team before earning a scholarship to the University of Maryland.
However, a series of injury setbacks and the lack of competitive women’s leagues in the U.S. forced her to transition into coaching after college.
Even after stepping away from playing, Balogun refused to give up on her dream of returning to the pitch. In 2021, while working as an assistant coach at UC Davis, a surprising opportunity presented itself.
During a friendly match against California Storm, Balogun stepped in as a goalkeeper for the opposing team, who were short-handed. Her standout performance earned her a temporary contract with the club, reigniting her playing career.
An Unexpected Super Falcons Debut
With COVID-19 travel restrictions and visa issues leaving Nigeria short on players for a friendly tournament, then-head coach Randy Waldrum tapped into his network and invited Balogun to join the team.
Her debut came in February 2021 against Costa Rica, where she kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 win. Balogun’s impressive performance earned her a spot on Nigeria’s roster for the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, further cementing her place within the team.
Yewande Balogun alongside Ifeoma Onumonu
Move to AS Saint-Étienne and Limited Playing Time
In 2022, Balogun’s growing reputation led to a move to French Division 2 club AS Saint-Étienne. However, while her playing time was limited, Balogun became a vital presence in the squad, contributing as a mentor to the younger players and offering support as a backup goalkeeper.
Super Falcons goalkeeper, Yewande Balogun has announced her retirement from football. Born on Sep 28, 1989, she represented at the int’l level.
“My body is saying it’s time to close this chapter and hang up the boots but I thank God for every step of this journey.” pic.twitter.com/Ec5eV3D0lg
— Precious Oham (@Greatman50) January 7, 2025
Controversial Call-Up to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
Balogun’s inclusion in Nigeria’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad generated some controversy. Reports suggested that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) questioned her selection, with some speculating that she was more of a coach than an active player.
READ MORE:Deborah Abiodun makes the jump from college to NWSL – Here’s What’s Next!
A Legacy of Persistence and Belief
While Balogun’s playing career with the Super Falcons was brief, her journey from coaching to competing at the highest level of women’s football is a testament to her resilience and belief.
In just four years, she went from an assistant coach on the sidelines to a World Cup player, defying expectations at every turn.
