With two goals and two assists in three matches, Rasheedat Ajibade has established himself as the rising star of the Nigerian team during this Women’s African Cup of Nations in Morocco (CAN 2022). In the absence of superstar Asisat Oshoala, forfeited through injury, the Atletico Madrid winger assumes this new status.
From our special correspondent in Rabat,
Riddle: Which Nigerian striker playing in Spain with colored hair lights up this AFCON 2022 ? No, it’s not Asisat Oshoala, pink dye, four-time African Player of the Year and resident of FC Barcelona. Forfeit on injury after Nigeria’s first match, the continental women’s football superstar indeed left the light to her young teammate, Rasheedat Ajibade, in blue dye. ” I don’t have any pressure whatsoeverhowever assures the latter. Each of us is a star on the pitch. You just have to know how to seize your chance at the right time on the lawn “.
At 22, the Atletico Madrid winger has already won a CAN (in 2018) and plays in one of the best clubs in Spain. But she is gaining momentum with the Super Falcons. After scoring Nigeria’s only goal against South Africa (2-1 defeat) and having been very active against Botswana (2-0 victory), “Rash” (his nickname) offered himself a new achievement and two assists, this July 10 against Burundi (4-0). ” It’s a question of individual progressshe explains. You have to be better every time. I was lucky to be selected in 2018. Now I know I have to do even more “.
Finalist for the African Football Oscars
Score more, as she did with her Madrid team this season, with 10 goals. But Rasheedat Ajibade knows that one of his main assets is his versatility. ” I was trained to be an adaptable player, to be able to play in any position in midfield or in attack. It’s one thing that can make you an exception “, she believes.
Rasheedat Ajibade is now focused on a quarter-final against Cameroon’s Ajara Njoya, her former teammate at Atletico Madrid. At stake, there is a place in the semi-finals of CAN 2022, automatic qualification for the 2023 World Cup, and spirits to score for the Confederation of African Football Trophies (CAF Awards). The Kaduna native is one of thirty nominated for the title of African Player of the Year. On July 21 in Rabat, will she succeed the winners of the CAF Awards to the other star with colored hair from Nigeria?
Interview by Hugo Moissonnier