Super Falcons advance to Olympic third round as captain Ajibade hospitalized after injury

The Nigerian women’s national team, known as the Super Falcons, completed a 7‑0 aggregate triumph over Comoros in the second leg of the CAF Women’s Olympic qualifying series on Tuesday. The 5‑0 victory at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, ensured Nigeria’s progression to the third round, where they will face Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses for a place at the 2028 Olympic Games.

Toni Payne and Uchenna Kanu each contributed two goals, while Christy Ucheibe added a penalty to complete the five‑goal tally. The win built on a 2‑0 first‑leg advantage, delivering a comprehensive 7‑0 aggregate scoreline that underlines Nigeria’s dominance in the early qualifying stages.

The match, however, was marred by a serious injury to team captain Rasheedat Ajibade. The midfielder was stretchered off in the 23rd minute after a collision with a Comoros defender. According to coach Austin Eguavoen, Ajibade was taken directly to a hospital for magnetic resonance imaging to assess the damage. Eguavoen indicated that the medical team believed the injury to be relatively minor, but he deferred further details to the medical staff.

Ajibade’s early exit prompted a tactical reshuffle, with Folashade Ijamilusi entering from the bench. Ijamilusi, alongside fellow substitute Blessing Okpe, injected fresh energy into the attack and helped maintain the team’s momentum for the remainder of the game.

The victory not only secures Nigeria’s place in the next qualifying round but also highlights the depth of talent within the squad. Ajibade, who featured in all three matches for Nigeria at the 2024 Olympic Games in France, remains a key figure for the team’s aspirations, and her fitness will be closely monitored ahead of the tougher fixtures to come.

Looking forward, the Super Falcons will prepare for a high‑profile clash against Morocco, a match that will determine which side advances toward the 2028 Olympic tournament. The coaching staff and medical team are expected to provide updates on Ajibade’s condition in the coming days, as Nigeria aims to maintain its strong record in African women’s football.