Football
“I Believe It’s God’s Decision”— Esther Oyenezide on Leaving Madrid and Joining Hapoel Jerusalem
Super Falcons midfielder Esther Oyenezide reflects on her faith-driven journey from Madrid CFF to Hapoel Jerusalem, embracing challenges for more playing time and her return to Nigeria’s national team.
Image Credits: Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
Super Falcons midfielder Esther Oyenezide has navigated an unexpected and eventful journey over the past year, leaving Spain's Madrid CFF to join Hapoel Jerusalem in Israel, a move that has sparked interest and questions.
In this exclusive interview with SportsBoom, Esther shares insights on her club decisions, her return to the Super Falcons, and her hopes for the future. With a faith-centered approach, she sheds light on the challenges and changes she’s embraced in her career.
Back with the Super Falcons: “I Feel Great”
It’s good to see you back with the Super Falcons. How do you feel about it? “I feel great, and I feel good.”
On Leaving Madrid CFF and Moving to Hapoel Jerusalem
What was the decision behind leaving Madrid CFF in Spain and going to Hapoel Jerusalem in Israel? “It’s not my decision. I believe it’s God,” she says thoughtfully.
“Yeah, it’s not my decision. So, if it’s not because of God that says, ‘Go to this country…’” She trails off, acknowledging the complexity of her journey.
Everybody knows the country is fighting war, but there were also lots of opportunities for playing time. That’s the main reason—for playing time. To prove my worth and make it back to the Super Falcons team.
Esther Oyenezide
Position and Comfort on the Pitch, Future Goals: “I Put Everything in God’s Hands”
What would you say is your best position as a player? Where do you feel most comfortable?
“Attacking midfield,” she replies confidently. “Playing as an eight, supporting striker.”
How do you see yourself in the next season with the club? “I don’t know,” she admits. “I don’t know. But I put everything in God’s hands. Because that country, you know, they are fighting war there. So, I don’t know.”
On Home-Based Players Joining the National Team
What do you feel about bringing the home-based players into the team? “Yeah, it’s good. I believe the NFF is doing the right thing to bring in home-based players. Because the league we are playing, we need the home base.
Not even just those from outside,” she continues, adding that she appreciates when the league talents are given chances in competitions or friendlies.
It shows the importance of the league products in the team as well.
Esther Oyenezide
Playing in Nigeria vs. Playing in Europe
What is the difference between playing in the NWFL and playing in Europe? How has it been, comparing it? What was it like making the jump to Europe from the NWFL?
“The league here in Nigeria is very tough, tougher than the ones there. But the pattern of play in Europe is faster than in the Nigerian league. There’s no big difference. It’s still football,” she explains.
“Anyone can make the big move from the NWFL to Europe and still perform very well there. Yes.”
Advice to Young Players with Super Falcons Ambitions
What would you say to those young players in the league right now who are dreaming of playing for the Super Falcons?
“They should keep on doing what they know how to do best. They should keep believing in their dreams. One day, it will be their turn.”
As Esther continues to follow her path, whether on the home field or in the challenges of a foreign league, she remains grounded in faith and her unwavering commitment to make the most of every step in her career.
Gbemidepo Popoola, is a freelance Sport Journalist with multiple years of experience in Writing, Reportage and Broadcasting. Gbemidepo's major concentration is telling the local Nigerian Sporting stories, in its own Unique way. This is because he believes, "no one, can tell our story better than ourselves".