Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has reassured supporters that she is doing well after suffering an ankle injury during Nigeria’s emphatic victory over Comoros in the qualifying campaign for the 2028 Olympic Games, although the extent of the injury and her potential return date remain major concerns for club and country.
The Nigerian international provided the update on Thursday, October 15, after the conclusion of the latest international break, thanking teammates, family members, technical staff and supporters for their messages, prayers and encouragement following the incident.
Ajibade sustained the injury during Nigeria’s second-leg encounter against Comoros at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Tuesday, October 13. The midfielder was forced off following a collision with an opponent, leaving the Super Falcons’ technical crew concerned about the condition of one of their most influential players.
In a statement shared on her official social media account, the 26-year-old said medical examinations and consultations were continuing, with further information expected when the necessary assessments had been completed.
“At the moment, I am doing okay, and my spirits are high,” Ajibade said, offering an encouraging message to supporters who had expressed concern about her condition.
The Super Falcons captain also made it clear that her immediate priority was recovering fully before returning to action for both her club and the Nigerian national team.
“Scans and medical consultations are ongoing, and more updates will be shared when available,” she added.
Her statement provided reassurance about her general condition but did not establish the precise severity of the injury or how long she might remain unavailable.
Ajibade was injured in the first half of Nigeria’s second-leg meeting with Comoros, with the incident occurring around the 23rd minute. She was unable to continue and was eventually replaced by Folashade Ijamilusi, who subsequently made an important contribution to Nigeria’s attacking performance.
The injury came at an unfortunate time for the Super Falcons captain, who has been an important figure in the national team because of her leadership, attacking ability and experience in international football.
Nigeria nevertheless continued to dominate the encounter, defeating Comoros 5-0 to complete a convincing 7-0 aggregate victory and advance to the next round of the African qualifying series for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The Super Falcons had entered the second leg with a 2-0 advantage from the first meeting, which also took place in Ikenne. Their strong performance in the return fixture ensured that the tie was settled comfortably despite the setback involving their captain.
Toni Payne opened the scoring in the 41st minute after Uchenna Kanu capitalised on a defensive error and squared the ball for her teammate to finish from close range.
Nigeria increased the pressure after the interval, with Kanu scoring in the 58th minute before Payne added her second goal of the evening in the 63rd minute.
Kanu completed her brace three minutes later, heading home another delivery from Ijamilusi. Christy Ucheibe then converted a penalty in the 71st minute to complete the 5-0 victory.
The result confirmed Nigeria’s progression to the next qualifying round, where they are scheduled to face Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses.
However, Ajibade’s injury remained the major concern despite the comprehensive result. Her absence could be significant as Nigeria prepare for a more demanding qualifying challenge against a Moroccan side that has developed into a strong competitor in African women’s football.
Ajibade has established herself as one of Nigeria’s prominent players through her contributions at club and international level. Her leadership was particularly important during the Super Falcons’ successful campaign at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria secured a record-extending 10th continental title.
The midfielder’s experience and versatility have made her an important part of the national team’s plans, increasing the significance of any prolonged absence as Nigeria pursue qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games.
At club level, Ajibade represents Paris Saint-Germain in France after previously playing for Spanish side Atletico Madrid. Her fitness will therefore also be important to her club’s domestic and European commitments.
Reports following the injury have raised concerns about a potentially serious ankle problem, but the exact diagnosis and expected recovery period must be distinguished from preliminary assessments until confirmed through reliable medical or club announcements.
For Nigeria, the priority will be ensuring that the captain receives appropriate treatment and sufficient recovery time before returning to competitive football. Rushing an injured player back prematurely could create further complications, particularly when the full extent of the damage has yet to be established publicly.
Ajibade’s message also highlighted the importance of the support she received following the incident. She expressed gratitude to her teammates, family, technical and medical staff, and fans who reached out with encouraging messages.
Her determination to return stronger will offer reassurance to supporters, although her eventual comeback will depend on the outcome of medical assessments and the progress of her rehabilitation.
With the next stage of the Olympic qualifying campaign approaching, Nigeria will hope to have their captain available again as soon as it is medically appropriate.
For now, Ajibade’s focus remains on recovery, while the Super Falcons await clearer information about the injury that interrupted an otherwise successful start to their journey towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
