Nigeria Players Abroad
Rinsola Babajide’s impact spurs Tenerife to claim draw against Villarreal
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria forward Rinsola Babajide played a pivotal role in securing a 1-1 draw for her Spanish top-flight team, Costa Adeje Tenerife, against Villarreal on Saturday.
Despite Tenerife facing adversity with a red card issued to Noelia Alvarez in the 11th minute, Babajide’s timely assist helped her team salvage a point from the match.
Villarreal had an opportunity to take the lead in the 14th minute through Fatoumata Kanteh Cham’s penalty, but she failed to convert. However, Cham redeemed herself by opening the scoring for the visitors in the 31st minute.
Babajide swiftly responded by setting up Claudia Blanco for the equalizing goal just eight minutes later, showcasing her playmaking abilities.
Babajide remained on the pitch for 89 minutes before being substituted for Maria Perez. The former Liverpool forward has been instrumental for Tenerife this season, tallying two goals and four assists in 19 league appearances.
Additionally, Babajide’s compatriot, Gift Monday, entered the fray in the 79th minute, replacing Jassina Blom.
Costa Adeje Tenerife currently occupies the ninth position in the league standings with 21 points from 19 games, as they continue their campaign in the Spanish top flight.
