Spread the word
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade is expected to spend at least three months on the sidelines after suffering a fracture to her right ankle during Nigeria’s 5-0 victory over Comoros in the 2028 Olympic Games qualifiers.
According to ESPN, the injury occurred during the first half of Tuesday’s second-leg encounter at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, following a collision with Comoros defender Diore Miriame Kaina Said.
Ajibade, who plays for French club Paris Saint-Germain, reportedly landed heavily on her right foot and was unable to continue the match. She was subsequently carried off the pitch on a stretcher and replaced by Folashade Ijamilusi.
The injury has raised concerns for both the Super Falcons and PSG, given Ajibade’s importance to the national team and the French club. Her recovery period could rule her out of several club fixtures and Nigeria’s November international engagements.
MRI confirms ankle fracture
The Nigeria Football Federation’s head of communications, Ademola Olajire, confirmed that an MRI scan had revealed a fracture in the midfielder’s ankle.
Olajire told ESPN that Ajibade was examined by a surgeon shortly after the injury but could not remain in Nigeria for further treatment because of her scheduled flight back to Paris.
“The MRI showed that she suffered a fracture on her ankle and she saw a surgeon here immediately after,” Olajire said.
“But because of her flight back to Paris, she couldn’t wait and I spoke to our team doctor and we understand she’ll be having surgery on Friday in Paris.”
According to Olajire, further information about the extent of the injury and the captain’s recovery is expected after the surgery and an assessment by PSG’s medical team.
The expected recovery period of at least three months means Ajibade could miss a significant part of the ongoing football season. However, her precise return date will depend on the outcome of the surgery, medical assessments and her rehabilitation progress.
Ajibade sends message to supporters
Despite the setback, the 26-year-old has sought to reassure supporters that she remains positive about her recovery.
In a message shared on her WhatsApp status, Ajibade thanked fans and well-wishers for their calls, messages and encouragement following the injury.
“I’m fine and doing well. I’ll be back stronger, for good and for God’s greater glory,” she wrote.
She also apologised for being unable to respond individually to everyone who had contacted her, adding that she had seen the messages and appreciated the support.
“Thank you so much for all your calls and messages. I’m sorry I can’t reply to everyone right now, but once I settle in, I’ll get back to each of you.
“I see all your messages, your love and your kind wishes. Thank you, thank you, thank you! God bless you all,” she added.
The captain’s message has offered encouragement to supporters as she prepares for surgery and the rehabilitation process.
Injury overshadows Super Falcons’ qualification
Ajibade’s injury overshadowed Nigeria’s emphatic win over Comoros, which secured a 7-0 aggregate victory and passage into the third round of the 2028 Olympic Games qualifiers.
The Super Falcons entered Tuesday’s match with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg and strengthened their position with five goals in the return fixture.
Toni Payne and Uchenna Kanu each scored twice, while Christy Ucheibe converted a penalty as Nigeria produced a four-goal second-half surge to complete the victory.
The result confirmed Nigeria’s progression to a two-legged third-round encounter against Morocco, scheduled for March 2027.
The Super Falcons are seeking to qualify for a second consecutive Olympic Games appearance after ending a 16-year absence by participating in the Paris 2024 tournament.
Ajibade’s availability for the Morocco ties could depend on how quickly she recovers from the fracture and returns to competitive action.
Key player for Nigeria and PSG
Ajibade remains one of Nigeria’s most experienced players and a key figure in the national team. She captained the Super Falcons to a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in 2025.
Her leadership and attacking contributions have made her an important member of the squad, making the injury a setback as Nigeria continues its campaign to return to the Olympic Games.
At club level, the forward joined Paris Saint-Germain from Atletico Madrid in 2025 on a contract running until June 2027.
The injury could disrupt her first full season with PSG, with her potential absence extending to several UEFA Women’s Champions League matches, depending on the recovery timeline and the club’s fixture schedule.
For Nigeria, the immediate concern will be ensuring that Ajibade receives appropriate treatment and rehabilitation while the team prepares for its next stage of Olympic qualification.
Further updates on the captain’s condition are expected following her scheduled surgery in Paris and subsequent assessments by PSG’s medical staff.
Spread the word