‘That’s not my family’ - Ashleigh Plumptre breaks silence on viral faces spotted celebrating Super Falcons in Morocco

Super Falcons star Ashleigh Plumptre has finally addressed the viral speculation surrounding the now-famous faces seen supporting the Nigerian team during the thrilling Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 final against Morocco.

Plumptre, who played the full 90 minutes as Nigeria battled back from a two-goal deficit to stun hosts Morocco and secure a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, was visibly emotional after the hard-fought win. 

However, recently circulated photos claiming to show the defender’s family cheering her on sparked widespread controversy and confusion on social media.

In a heartfelt video shared on X, Plumptre set the record straight: “That’s not my family,” she said, visibly surprised by the misinformation. 

She went on to explain the real story behind the supporters in question. “No, but they are a family. I’ll tell you quickly, they came and watched the tournament in 2022, and I saw them in the crowd, and it made me emotional because they reminded me of myself and my sister and their dad.” 

“So, I’ve been speaking to them because when we played a couple of games ago, I saw them again. I wanted to make sure I could know them, so I gave one of the girls my shir,t and I was like, ‘message me on Instagram, I will try to find you’ and I did. So, they are not my family, but always feel like my family.”

Further investigations by Pulse Sports revealed that the family is from Kwara State and travelled to Morocco to passionately support the Super Falcons on their journey to continental glory.

Plumptre’s clarification shows the deep connections and sense of community that football fosters, extending beyond blood relations. 

The warm bond she shares with her newfound Nigerian “family” in the stands stands as a reminder of the unifying power of sport and the enduring spirit of the Super Falcons’ remarkable WAFCON triumph.