Rinsola Babajide joins Gift Monday and Esther Okoronkwo at UDG Tenerife

by Oluwaseun Oyediji

Nigeria-eligible forward Rinsola Babajide has joined Spanish Liga F outfit Granadilla Tenerife, on a two-year deal.

The 25-year-old international striker joins the blue and white team to reinforce the attack after her stint with another Spanish side, lead, Real Betis last season.

Babajide is the third addition to UDG Tenerife ahead of the 2023/2024 campaign and the second Nigerian to arrival this summer window after Esther Okoronkwo from French side Saint Ettiene.

The new blue and white attacker arrives on the island after two seasons at Real Betis, in which she scored ten goals, including nine in the Spanish Liga F and one in the Queen’s Cup.

Previously, the 25-year-old was part of the historic Liverpool for four seasons, Brighton & Hove Albion on loan from Liverpool, Watford (2017/2018), Milwall (2015/2016) and Crystal Palace.

Babajide has represented England at under-19, under-20, and under-21 categories, playing four games in the U-20 World Cup held in France in 2018, where she won the bronze medal.

She was also called up by the senior team for training sessions in 2020 but could not earn her international debut till date, meaning she is still eligible to represent Nigeria, through her parents.

The striker stands out for her efficient mobility away from the area and association with the ball dominated, behind the rival defense, or starting from positions in the creation zone.

In addition, she has a good passing game thanks to her 1.74-meter height and can play both the role of striker and winger in the offensive field.

She became the third player of Nigerian descent at UDG Tenerife after the arrival of Gift Monday  from Nigeria Women Football League Premiership side, Robo Queens last summer and Okoronkwo who joined the club from French outfit, Saint Etienne this transfer window.