Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide says her Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) debut felt like a dream after helping Nigeria to a 3-0 victory over Tunisia in their Group B opener on Sunday in Casablanca.
The England-born winger was a standout performer at Stade Larbi Zaouli, registering an assist for Asisat Oshoala’s opening goal just four minutes in, before scoring her own in first-half stoppage time to cap off a dazzling 45-minute performance.
“It feels like a dream, honestly,” Babajide said in her post-match interview. “I’ve had a few appearances, a few assists, but I was always missing that first goal.
So I’m so happy to get that out of the way finally and also to contribute towards a win as well in such a big tournament. It’s such a privilege.”
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Babajide’s celebration was a poignant moment, as she honoured the memory of former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who both tragically passed away days earlier.
“It was for Diogo Jota and his brother,” she said. “That was one of his biggest celebrations at the club. He was one of my best players at the club when I was there. May his soul rest in perfect peace, both of them.”
Babajide Rinsola (Image credit: Justina Aniefiok)
The gesture added emotional significance to a night already filled with personal and national pride for the Super Falcons forward.
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Looking ahead, Babajide was clear about her and the team’s ambitions for the rest of the tournament.
“We want the trophy—it’s a new trophy, and we really want it,” she said. “But we’re taking it game by game, just aiming for a better performance each time and to score as many goals as possible.”
Babajide’s performance has reinforced Nigeria’s status as favourites at WAFCON 2024, as the Super Falcons aim to reclaim their continental crown. They next face Botswana on Thursday.
