Nigeria’s retired Super Falcons captain Ebi Onome looked at Ashleigh Plumptre, who now dons the iconic number 5 jersey she wore for two decades, she saw more than a capable footballer – she saw a kindred spirit.
“You see this girl, eh? I feel we are the same from different parents,” Ebi nicely joked in a social media post, noting the uncanny similarities – same birthday (the 8th), same birth month (May), just a different year.
For Ebi, watching Ashleigh rule the defense with the same energy, discipline, and dedication she once brought to the squad is both comforting and deeply satisfying. 
“Best replacement for the number 5, which means a lot to me and makes me satisfied after 20 years,” Ebi shared, pride brimming in every word.
Her blessing and admiration culminate in a symbolic passing of the torch: “Now you just have to change the name on the jersey from Ebi to Plumptre.”
For Nigerian football, it’s not just a transition, but a powerful bond between generations united by heart, jersey number, and an unbreakable passion for the beautiful game.
