Longo retires from international football
- editor59343
- 5 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Football Ferns star Annalie Longo has confired she will retire from international football after the second match against Australia’s Matildas at Coopers Stadium in Adelaide.
Longo, known as Flea to her teammates, will finish her New Zealand career on 144 caps, the fifth-highest total in the team’s history, and 15 goals.
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The midfielder has enjoyed an extensive career since making her senior international debut at just 15, appearing at five FIFA Women’s World Cups, including the home tournament in 2023, and four Olympic Games.
The decision follows her retirement from professional club football with Wellington Phoenix in April, after an outstanding final season in which she was recognised as Player of the Year by members, media, and fellow players.
Annalie Longo said she has mixed emotions on the move.
“This game has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Football has shaped who I am. I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful to have lived my dream for so many years. Representing New Zealand will always be one of the greatest honours of my life.
“To my teammates, past and present, thank you for the friendships, the laughter, the hard work, and the memories I will carry forever.
“To the coaches, medical staff, and everyone behind the scenes who supported me, thank you for believing in me and helping me grow on and off the pitch.
“To my family and friends, thank you for standing by me through every high and low, your love and support made all of this possible.
“Inspiring and growing the next generation has been one of the most meaningful parts of my career, and I will continue to develop and support the future of the women’s game in Aotearoa.
“While I’m stepping away from playing, I’m excited for what comes next and to continue giving back to the sport that has given me so much.
“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being part of this journey. P.S. … Tiger [Annalie’s dog], I’m coming home.”
New Zealand coach Michael Mayne is sad to see Longo retire but understands her reasons.
“Annalie has given more than you could ever ask for to the Ferns since her debut as a 15-year-old.
“You can see everything you need to know about her by looking at her journey in the shirt. She has seen and experienced it all, but throughout her career she has always played her role, put the team first, and promoted excellence for herself and the side.
“To see her lead this team the way she has this year, in my role as head coach, is something I am not only privileged to have been part of but also thankful for. She ends her international career having given everything for the fern, representing it with such passion and commitment.
“I wish her well following the last game she will play as a Ford Football Fern, and I hope to see her continue to inspire the next generation through her experiences, in whatever capacity that may be moving forward.”
Longo’s final game for the Football Ferns will be against Australia on Tuesday 2 December at Coopers Stadium in Adelaide.
