Super Falcons of Nigeria defender Ashleigh Plumptre has expressed her heartbreak over missing the Olympics due to injury.

Plumptre, a key player for Nigeria, was unable to partake in the final qualifying game against South Africa due to a foot injury sustained with her club, Al-Nassr, which required surgery.

Despite a successful surgery, her recovery did not progress quickly enough to make Randy Waldrum’s 18-woman squad for the Paris games. Plumptre took to social media to share her disappointment and to support her teammates, saying:

“Timings haven’t quite aligned to be in contention for the Olympic roster – a dream I’ve held since I can remember. Since having my surgery, I’ve worked in every area of life to put myself in the best position to recover, but one thing that’s come from this is learning how to listen to my body properly! While on a personal note it’s a shame to miss out.

“I cannot put into words my excitement and pride in knowing I’ll be watching my @nigeriasuperfalcons girls representing this flag on the Olympic stage. Go well, girls! Naija to the world.”

The Super Falcons’ Olympic journey begins on July 25th against Brazil, with subsequent group-stage games against Spain and Japan.