Former Super Falcons and AS Saint-Étienne goalkeeper, Yewande Balogun has officially announced her retirement, bringing an end to a remarkable journey that saw her fulfill dreams of playing professional football and representing Nigeria.
The 34-year-old made the announcement on Instagram, writing: “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.”
Balogun’s journey was far from conventional, marked by setbacks, resilience, and determination to make the most of every opportunity.
From youth prospect to coaching aspirations
Born and raised in the United States, Yewande Balogun initially represented the U.S. U14 national team before accepting a scholarship to the University of Maryland.
Injury setbacks and the absence of competitive women’s leagues in the U.S. forced her to pivot to coaching after college.
Despite her transition into coaching, Balogun never gave up on her dream of returning to competitive football. In 2021, while working as an assistant coach at UC Davis, a bizarre turn of events opened the door for her return.
During a friendly match against California Storm, Balogun stepped in as a goalkeeper for the opposition, who were short-staffed. Her impressive performance earned her a temporary contract with the team, reigniting her playing career.
Super Falcons career out of the blue
Yewande Balogun’s fortunes changed dramatically when COVID-19 travel restrictions and visa issues left the Super Falcons short-handed for a U.S.-based friendly tournament.
Then-head coach Randy Waldrum tapped into his network to find eligible players, and Balogun received a surprise invitation to the national team.Her debut for Nigeria came in February 2021 against Costa Rica, where she kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory.
The Washington, D.C.-born also made it to the 2022 Womens Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco as part of the 25-man list.
Balogun’s involvement with Nigeria increased her profile and it earned her a move to French Division 2 side AS Saint-Étienne in 2022.
However, her playing opportunities remained limited, with her primary contributions often coming as a mentor and backup goalkeeper.
Fast forward to a year later, Balogun was named in Nigeria’s squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and it sparked debate.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) reportedly questioned her selection, suggesting she was more of a goalkeeper coach than an active player. Nevertheless, she was part of the squad that reached the Round of 16, narrowly losing to England on penalties.
Balogun’s career may have been brief on paper. Just one cap in four years, but her journey from coaching sidelines to the world stage is an intriguing story of unrelenting belief.
