STEPHANIE ZAMBRA (NÉE Roche) has announced her retirement from football, aged 35.
The Shamrock Rovers striker shared the news in a heartfelt statement on Instagram, writing: “Thanks for the memories, the friendships and the opportunities. It’s been some journey.
“From kicking a ball around the streets of Shanganagh Cliffs to scoring goals for my country, I can truly say that football has given me enough happy memories to last a lifetime.
“But all good things must come to an end, so it’s time to hang up my boots. Of course this is a very difficult decision to make but I’m proud of what I’ve achieved in the game and feel I’m ready to embrace some new challenges.”
Zambra will draw the curtain on her career after Saturday’s final game of the season against Shelbourne at Tallaght Stadium.
She has spent the last two seasons at the Hoops, previously representing Peamount United in the Women’s Premier Division.
The 50-plus cap Ireland international is best known for her sensational goal, which was nominated for the 2014 Fifa Puskas Award. She made history as the first female nominee, and her effort — scored for Peamount against Wexford Youths — finished second place to James Rodríguez with 33% of the vote.
Zambra won 58 senior caps for Ireland, scoring 14 goals since her debut in the European Championships play-off against Iceland in 2008. Her final appearance came in a 2022 friendly against the Philippines, which ended a five-year gap between games.
She helped transform women’s football in this country, from the Puskas-nominated goal to her appearance at the landmark 2017 press conference in Liberty Hall and threatened strike.
The Dubliner also had spells in France (ASPTT Albi), USA (Houston Dash), England (Sunderland) and Italy (Florentia) during a colourful career.
Legendary Peamount United goalkeeper Niamh Reid Burke is similarly retiring after this weekend’s action. She has featured in every season of the league since its inception in 2011/12.
Zambra played for Peamount that year, claiming the Golden Boot as the Greenogue outfit— managed by now-Ireland boss Eileen Gleeson — won the double. She helped Peas to the same league and cup feat in 2020.
Stephanie Zambra has announced her retirement from football! 👏
— LOI Women (@LoiWomen) October 9, 2024
A player who has inspired so many in Irish football, and who has hugely influenced the #WLOI over the last number of years 💪
Congratulations on a fantastic career, Steph! pic.twitter.com/i71z6PwK6D
Stephanie Zambra has today called time on her playing career, announcing her retirement from the game
— Shamrock Rovers Women (@RoversWomen) October 9, 2024
She will pull on a jersey for the final time this Saturday in Tallaght, with the Club offering free admission to encourage as many fans as possible to come along to say goodbye
