Rasheedat Ajibade, the captain of the Nigerian women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, has made a welcome return to training with her club, Atletico Madrid Women. After a brief hiatus due to a knock sustained earlier, Ajibade’s presence back on the field signifies a boost for both club and country. Her absence was felt during Atletico’s last two matches and the Super Falcons’ international friendly against France. The forward’s return was marked by a social media post signaling her eagerness to rejoin the squad. This return is timely, as Atletico Madrid prepares for their upcoming match against Tenerife, where Ajibade’s skills and leadership will undoubtedly be a valuable asset.
Ajibade’s recent injury layoff interrupted a stellar start to the season. Prior to the knock, the 24-year-old had been in exceptional form, showcasing her prowess with five goals and two assists in just eight appearances for Atletico Madrid Women. This impressive performance earned her the prestigious Spanish Liga F Player of the Month award for September, a testament to her growing influence in the league. She outshone other prominent players, including Barcelona’s Ewa Pajor, Real Madrid’s Caroline Weir, Levante Badalona’s María Llompart, and Athletic Club Femenino’s Nerea Nevado, to clinch the coveted award.
The two-game absence due to injury saw Ajibade drop to fifth place in the Liga F scoring charts. While currently five goals behind leader Ewa Pajor, her return to fitness offers the opportunity to close the gap and reignite her pursuit of the top scorer title. Her consistent performances and goal-scoring ability position her as a key contender in the race.
Ajibade’s contributions extend beyond her club. As captain of the Super Falcons, she played a pivotal role in their recent victories against Algeria in an international friendly. Her brace in the first leg, played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, secured a 2-0 win for Nigeria, underscoring her importance to the national team. Her leadership and on-field performance are crucial to the Super Falcons’ aspirations.
Since joining Atletico Madrid in 2021, Ajibade’s trajectory in Spanish football has been nothing short of remarkable. She has quickly cemented her place as a vital player for the club, consistently delivering impactful performances. Her dedication, skillset, and leadership qualities have enabled her to establish herself as a prominent figure in the women’s game. Her rapid rise is a testament to her talent and hard work, marking her as a player to watch in the coming years.
Ajibade’s return to training signifies more than just the recovery of a key player for Atletico Madrid. It represents the return of a dynamic and influential force in women’s football. Her impact transcends club level, extending to the Nigerian national team where she serves as a captain and inspiration. As she regains full fitness and returns to competitive action, her continued success and contributions to the sport are highly anticipated. Her journey, marked by dedication and impressive performances, is an inspiring narrative in the world of women’s football.
