Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has signed a two-year contract extension with Saudi Arabian Women’s Premier League club Al-Ittihad, keeping her with the team until 2027.
Plumptre joined Al-Ittihad in 2023 from Leicester City after the FIFA Women’s World Cup. She has become a key player, contributing with her goal-scoring ability as a defender.
“Grateful to have signed for Al-Ittihad,” she said on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Excited to start this journey alongside some incredible human beings. My journey of stepping into more of myself continues… It’s more than football,” Plumptre wrote on her X account.
Al-Ittihad’s Chief Executive Officer, Domingos Oliveira, confirmed the extension, stating it aligns with the club’s strategy of retaining valuable players committed to development and long-term success.
Plumptre’s time in Saudi Arabia has included challenges.
After helping Nigeria qualify for the Olympics, she was sidelined due to surgery, missing the 2024 Games. However, she returned to full fitness in October 2024 and resumed her leadership role at Al-Ittihad.
Despite her return to club form, Plumptre has yet to fully reclaim her place in the Super Falcons starting lineup. She recently returned to the national team for a friendly against France, her first appearance since her injury. Her strong performances for Al-Ittihad have earned her the captain’s armband, highlighting her leadership qualities.
Plumptre switched international allegiance from England to Nigeria and debuted at the 2022 WAFCON in Morocco. She also represented Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. She missed the 2024 Paris Olympics due to injury.
With the 2024 WAFCON returning to Morocco, Plumptre is expected to play a crucial role for the Super Falcons as they aim for a record-extending 10th title.
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