How junior football shaped Super Falcons star Rasheedat Ajibade

Ajibade is one of the most recognisable figures in women's football, sporting a signature blue hairdo with club and country, and has enjoyed a steady rise in the game.

The 25 year-old, who has amassed 29 caps and five goals for the Super Falcons and played a sizeable role in their recent 2024 Olympic and 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup campaigns, says it was her introduction to the international stage at the 2014 U17 Women's World Cup that has shaped her into the player she is today.

“It was an exciting experience, nerve-wrecking and if you remember, a  lot was happening in the team internally. I’m so proud of the girls in the team because we were mature, united and were honoured to represent the country,” 'Rash' told SABC Sport.

"We did our best, we were not given enough, but we were willing to give out our hearts. When we are together, everybody sticks together, as one nation to make Nigeria proud.

“Also, my exposure in the U17 World Cup, you know that’s when I took my first flight, and I started dreaming bigger and also developed a mental fortitude. If I weren’t part of the U17 squad then I wouldn’t be this mentally strong."

Losing her father at an early age also played a major role in shaping Ajibade, whose mother had to step up and provide for her and her four siblings.

"We lost our dad at an early age, and my Mum was a single mum with five kids – a lot was happening and she fought for us to be great. People wanted to take us but she said no, worked hard and made sure that we could eat," she shared.

"It was tough because we all started working at a young age. She taught us contentment, we didn't have toys, or [have meals at places like] McDonald's.

"We went to church to pray for food, then went to help her at the market. She is an independent woman and I always knew I was destined for success because of her.”

Having been named Atletico Madrid Femeni's Player of the Year in 2024, the former FC Robo attacker, reflected on her campaign that saw her contribute 10 goals and six assists in 30 matches.

“It was an amazing year, an emotional one, humbling one. I’m truly grateful that my consistent effort has been rewarded. I mean, Atletico is a prestigious club with an amazing fan base, it was truly special.

"I want to keep working hard, help the team achieve more and I’m super thankful to my teammates and everyone in the club. I’m happy that my career has gotten this far and I would like to give credit to my role model, my Mum," Ajibade concluded.

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