Oparanozie Lauds FIFA’s Impact On Women’s Football Growth

Nigerian women’s football icon Desire Oparanozie, a veteran of four FIFA Women’s World Cups and a four-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) winner, has lauded FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s decade-long leadership for significantly advancing the women’s game.

The 32-year-old retired forward, known for her powerful shots, stated, “The FIFA President is no doubt on the right path to grow and improve women’s football. Since coming on board, the evolution of women’s football from 2016 to today has been marked by rapid growth and professionalization.”

Oparanozie highlighted key developments, including the expansion of the FIFA Women’s World Cup from 24 teams in 2019 to 32 in 2023, with plans for 48 in 2031. “More teams mean more opportunities for players, coaches, and federations to develop, invest, and compete at the highest level,” she explained, noting the progress of African teams, with three reaching the knockout stage in 2023.

A “groundbreaking” initiative for Oparanozie was the direct payment structure for players at the 2023 World Cup, guaranteeing a minimum of $30,000 USD. “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,” she said, calling it a “major step toward gender equity in sports.”

The recent launch of the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, the women’s equivalent of the FIFA Club World Cup, also excites Oparanozie. “Having top clubs from each confederation creates a global stage that showcases talent, boosts media visibility, and attracts investment,” she added.

Beyond the professional game, Oparanozie praised FIFA’s Players Impact initiative, which assists former players in transitioning to retirement. Now retired for two years, Oparanozie remains actively involved in football through her “Desire Oparanozie Foundation,” which mentors young players and scouts for talent, and by coaching a lower-division boys’ team, Pam FC.