'Greatest honour' - Rinsola Babajide excited about first major tournament for Nigeria, celebrates best birthday gift

'Greatest honour' - Rinsola Babajide excited about first major tournament for Nigeria, celebrates best birthday gift

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 14:45 - 20.06.2025

Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide couldn't contain her excitement after earning her first senior call-up to Nigeria's Women's Africa Cup of Nations squad.

Former Liverpool forward Rinsola Babajide has expressed immense joy and gratitude after earning her first senior call-up to Nigeria’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) squad. 

The Super Falcons forward took to social media with an emotional all-caps message, celebrating the opportunity to represent her country at Africa’s premier women’s football tournament.

Strong and Balanced Super Falcons Squad Announced

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu announced a strong 24-player squad for the 13th edition of WAFCON, with Babajide among 11 debutants. 

The squad blends experienced stars like Michelle Alozie, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Osinachi Ohale with promising talents including Jennifer Echegini, Deborah Abiodun, and the returning Halimatu Ayinde. 

Coach Justine Madugu says the 10th title is possible for Nigeria.

Three home-based players, goalkeeper Rachael Unachukwu and defenders Sikiratu Isah and Miracle Usani also earned their spots.

Babajide’s Emotional Response and Milestone Moment

After the squad announcement on Friday, Babajide, who recently impressed in a friendly against Cameroon, shared her excitement on social media:

Rinsola Babajide is excited about her first major tournament.
Rinsola Babajide is excited about her first major tournament.

“GUYSSSS, I’M GOING TO MY FIRST SENIOR MAJOR TOURNAMENT!!! IT’S THE GREATEST HONOUR KNOWING I’LL BE REPRESENTING MY COUNTRY AT THE AFRICAN CUP OF NATIONS !! THANK YOU FOR ALL THE LOVE & SUPPORT UP UNTIL THIS POINT! GOD DID.”

This call-up signals a major milestone in Babajide’s career, which has seen steady progress through Nigeria’s youth ranks. 

Just days after celebrating her birthday, she described the selection as the best birthday gift she could have hoped for in a separate post on X (formerly Twitter).

As WAFCON 2024 approaches, Babajide joins a Super Falcons squad determined to make a strong impact on African football’s biggest stage, blending youthful energy with seasoned experience.