Oparanozie Looks Dejected As Falcons Treated to Heroic Welcome at Team’s Hotel After WWC Exit, Video

• Desire Oparanozie has been heavily criticised for missing her penalty kick at the FIFA Women's World Cup
• England edged out Nigeria 4-2 on penalties to reach the quarter-final stage of the competition
• The Nigerian forward looked dejected as the squad returned to their hotel following their exit from the tournament

The Super Falcons of Nigeria returned to their hotel after crashing out of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup with Desire Oparanozie looking dejected.

Nigerians have continued to demand the player’s retirement after she missed her spot kick in the Round of 16 clash against England.

It was her first appearance at the tournament, having missed the three matches during the preliminary rounds.

After a goalless 90 minutes against the Three Lionesses, the encounter proceeded into extra time. Nigeria needed to have capitalised after Lauren James was sent off just before the end of regulation time.

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Oparanozie’s experience was needed, and in the 114th minute, she was introduced into the game, replacing the impressive Toni Payne.

The 29-year-old had just three touches in six minutes before the referee sounded the final whistle as the game headed into a penalty shootout.

Oparanozie, who has been a member of the Super Falcons squad since 2010, failed to convert from the spot, Fox Sports reports.

Michelle Alozie also missed her kick as England Women won the tie 4-2 after the shootout, ending Nigeria’s dreams at the tournament.

Footage shows the moment the Super Falcons walked into a 'guard of honour' as they were treated to a heroic welcome upon arrival at the hotel.

Oparanozie covered her head in a hoodie and looked dejected following the loss.

Nigerians hail Alozie

Sports Brief earlier reported that Nigeria may be out of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, but Nigerians are delighted with Michelle Alozie despite her penalty miss against England.

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Alozie was key for Nigeria, frustrating England’s best player, Lauren James, throughout the encounter and eventually getting her sent off when the Chelsea forward lost her cool by stamping on her.

Nigerians have gone on social media to appreciate the Super Falcons defender despite the national team crashing out of the tournament.