Super Falcons forward Rasheedat Ajibade was full of emotion and humility after earning her third Player of the Match award at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following Nigeria’s dramatic 2-1 semi-final victory over defending champions South Africa.
Ajibade, 25, has been one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers at the tournament. She scored a vital goal in the semi-final and provided two assists in the 5-0 quarter-final rout of Zambia.
She was also named Player of the Match in the group stage win over Botswana.
Despite her growing list of individual accolades, the Super Falcons captain remained grounded and credited the entire squad for her recognition.
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“This is teamwork. It is not about me carrying this trophy today. It’s all about the team effort,” Ajibade said in her post-match interview.
Photo Credit: CAF
“I don’t deserve it, to be honest. But God’s grace found me. And all of these Man of the Match awards, I dedicate them to my teammates.”
Ajibade also acknowledged the passionate support from Nigerian fans both in the stadium and back home.
“And all the fans roaring and supporting us today, we couldn’t have done it on our own, not on our strength. But all glory to God. Thank God, thank Jesus Christ, for His grace and mercy,” she added.
The former Atletico Madrid star has been a driving force behind Nigeria’s unbeaten run at WAFCON 2024, leading the charge as the Super Falcons aim to reclaim the continental crown.
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Nigeria will now face hosts Morocco in the final after the Atlas Lionesses edged Ghana in a penalty shootout. A win would seal a record-extending 10th WAFCON title for the West African giants.
