Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, has offered a candid and emotional insight into Nigeria’s gritty 2–1 semi-final triumph over arch-rivals South Africa at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), admitting the team was initially gripped by nervousness and confusion before rallying to secure a hard-fought victory.
The tension-filled clash, played in front of a roaring crowd, saw Nigeria draw first blood through a composed penalty from Ajibade, only for South Africa to claw back and level the score, setting up a nervy second half.
Speaking during the post-match press conference—where she was deservedly named Player of the Match for the third time in the tournament—Ajibade didn’t mince words about the mental and emotional rollercoaster her team endured.
> “To be honest, for a moment, we were a bit nervous. There was confusion when it was 1–1,” she admitted. “It’s normal sometimes to get overwhelmed at that point in the game. But we knew we had to snap out of it quickly. We reminded ourselves that fear would only fragment us, and once that happens, the opponent gains the upper hand.”
The former Atlético Madrid star, now one of the tournament’s standout performers, emphasized the power of team unity and emotional composure in navigating tense moments.
> “We pulled together, stayed strong, and encouraged each other. We reminded ourselves why we’re here—what we represent. And we pushed to the very end, for ourselves and for Nigeria.”
While praising the team’s resilience, Ajibade was also self-critical, lamenting missed opportunities that could have made the scoreline more emphatic.
> “We had some good chances in the first half but didn’t take them. That’s an area we’ll definitely work on ahead of the final. But in the end, it’s the result that matters most—and we delivered.”
Off the pitch, Ajibade showed a deeply human side when asked about South African forward Gabriela Salgado, who was stretchered off following a nasty collision.
> “Honestly, I felt broken and disappointed,” she said with a heavy heart. “As footballers, we know injuries are part of the game, but we never wish them on anyone. I always pray for safety—for myself and my opponents. We truly sympathize with Gabriela, and we’ll be checking on her recovery. I hope she comes back stronger and continues to do what she loves.”
With the Super Falcons now poised for a record-extending 10th WAFCON final, Ajibade believes the journey has just begun.
> “We’re not done yet. This team has heart, courage, and belief. We want to bring that trophy home for Nigeria.”
The final promises to be a thrilling climax to what has already been an unforgettable tournament for the Falcons. With leaders like Ajibade anchoring the squad both tactically and emotionally, Nigeria’s dream of continental dominance is very much alive.
PIONEER NEWS 