Desire Oparanozie: Women’s football on right path under Gianni Infantino

When it comes to analysing women’s football, few are better placed than a player who has featured in four FIFA Women’s World Cups – a rare feat achieved by only a select group globally.

One of them is Nigeria legend Desire Oparanozie. Renowned for her power-laden shots and clinical finishing, the retired 32-year-old enjoyed an illustrious career at both club and international level, winning four Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titles with the Super Falcons.

As FIFA President Gianni Infantino marks 10 years at the helm of world football’s governing body, Oparanozie believes the women’s game has witnessed remarkable growth under his leadership.

“The FIFA President is no doubt on the right path to grow and improve women’s football,” the former Wolfsburg and Guingamp forward declared in an exclusive interview.

“Since coming on board, the evolution of women’s football from 2016 to today has been marked by rapid growth and professionalization.

“The increase in the number of teams participating in the FIFA Women’s World Cup is fundamental for the growth of women’s football at global level. From 24 teams in 2019, to 32 in 2023, and 48 in 203 means more opportunity for both for this generation and the next generation to compete on the world stage.”

Oparanozie highlighted Africa’s growing presence on the global stage, pointing to the expansion of slots at the tournament.

“Having two African teams at the finals to four at the last edition in 2023 is a significant step forward for women’s football on the continent.

“This excites me personally because it gives Africa more slot on the world stage.

“More teams mean more opportunities for players, coaches, and federations to develop, invest, and compete at the highest level. This growth has already shown results, with three African teams reaching the knockout stage in 2023, signaling that the gap with traditional powerhouses is closing.”

Groundbreaking financial reforms

Another milestone she applauded was the introduction of a direct payment structure for players at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand – a move she described as transformative.

“It guaranteed every participating player a minimum of USD 30,000 and a maximum of USD 270,000 each for members of the champion squad. In all four World Cups I’ve played, the 2023 one was a reward for years of hard work for African players, especially Nigerian players.

“For the first time FIFA directly paid players, rather than channeling prize money solely through federations, aiming to ensure athletes receive fair compensation for their efforts. Thanks to FIFA for this major step toward gender equity in sports.”

Oparanozie also welcomed the introduction of the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, describing it as a major boost for the women’s club game.

“The FIFA Women’s Champions Cup marks a major step forward for women’s club football. Having top clubs from each confederation creates a global stage that showcases talent, boosts media visibility, and attracts investment into the women’s game.

“The Champions Cup provides that world stage platform and experience for players who aren’t lucky enough with their national teams.”

Investing beyond the pitch

Infantino’s tenure has also seen the rollout of development programmes, including the FIFA Players Impact initiative – something that resonates strongly with the former striker.

“It is a great initiative by FIFA helping ex-players to have smooth transitioning from active playing into retirement, by providing a platform for involvement.

“I’m most interested in the player development programmes, and administration. Together, these areas create a sustainable ecosystem.”

Oparanozie’s four Women’s World Cup appearances (2011, 2015, 2019, 2023) place her among Africa’s elite, just two behind former teammate Onome Ebi, the only African to feature at six editions.

Reflecting on her journey, she said:

“Playing in four FIFA Women’s World Cup was a huge milestone, a dream come true and a defining part of my career. Each of the four tournaments brought unique challenges and opportunities for growth.

“From the very first one in 2011 where I gained valuable experience and exposure to top-level competition, to the 2015, 2019, and 2023 ones where I contributed to team’s performance and leadership. The overall experience was humbling, and a great honour to represent my country on such a big stage.

“The highlight of my football career is representing Nigeria on the world stage at four FIFA Women’s World Cups (2011, 2015, 2019, 2023). Wearing the Super Falcons jersey and competing against the best teams globally was a dream come true and a source of immense pride.

“Another unforgettable moment was winning the African Women’s Championship (now AWCON) with Nigeria in 2010, 2014, 2016 and 2018, helping my country dominate women’s football in Africa. These experiences shaped me as a player and as a person, and they remain my most cherished memories.”

Giving back to the next generation

Since retiring two years ago, Oparanozie remains deeply involved in football through her foundation and coaching work.

“I’m using my experience to shape young footballers in my community through my foundation (Desire Oparanozie Foundation), by organizing football games and mentorship programs. I scout for talent, and distribute educational materials, technical skills and share life lessons from my career.

“By creating opportunities for them to play and compete, I hope to inspire the next generation of female footballers to dream big and pursue their goals relentlessly.”

She also coaches Pam FC, a lower-division boys’ side, where she continues to pass on her knowledge of the game.

Through her words and actions, Oparanozie’s message is clear: women’s football is on an upward trajectory – and, in her view, the foundations laid over the past decade at FIFA are helping to shape a more inclusive and competitive future for the global game.