Nigerian defender Glory Ogbonna has opened up about her stellar performances with Turkish giants Besiktas, her pride in former club Edo Queens, and her ambitions to return to the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s senior women’s national team.

Ogbonna began her professional journey in Sweden with Umea IK in 2022 before moving to Turkey the same year to play for ALG Spor, where she made her UEFA Women’s Champions League debut. Now, after more than two years in the Turkish league, Ogbonna has adapted to its competitive demands, becoming a key player for Besiktas during their seven-match winning streak against top sides, including Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, and Trabzonspor.

“I’ve really learned to understand the playing style here and adapt to the system,” Ogbonna told SportsBoom.com. “This adaptability has been crucial to my strong form this season.”

Her standout moment came during Besiktas’ thrilling Istanbul derby victory, ending Fenerbahce’s unbeaten run. She attributes her team’s success to unity and hard work. “We motivate and support each other, covering for mistakes and playing as a team,” she said.

Ogbonna also shared her pride in Edo Queens’ performance at the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League. “Watching them top their group was a proud moment for me,” she said, praising their resilience against Mamelodi Sundowns.

Despite being absent from the Super Falcons since the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Ogbonna remains determined to earn a recall. “Not being selected doesn’t mean I’ve stopped performing,” she said. “I’m always ready to represent Nigeria. It’s my dream to contribute to the Super Falcons’ success.”

Reflecting on her journey, which includes two U20 Women’s World Cup appearances and the 2018 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations title, Ogbonna offered advice to aspiring defenders: “Hard work, dedication, and grace are key. Stay focused, trust the process, and believe in yourself.”

With her impressive performances at Besiktas and unwavering commitment, Glory Ogbonna continues to inspire as she pursues greater achievements for both club and country.