National Teams
Paris 2024: Nigeria star Rasheedat Ajibade looking forward to an impactful Olympics
By Saheed Afolabi
Rasheedat Ajibade, captain of the Nigeria women’s national team, is eagerly anticipating the 2024 Paris Olympics, expressing high optimism about their chances at the prestigious event.
Nigeria’s qualification marks their return to the Olympics after a 16-year absence, making it a significant moment for the team.
Ajibade highlighted that for many squad members, including herself, this will be their first experience at the Olympics. She emphasized the excitement and readiness of the team, viewing the tournament as a dream come true for all involved.
In her words to NFF TV, Ajibade said, “Yes, Olympics, it’s the first time for most of us. We are excited, maybe that’s why we all pumped up.
“We are ready, we can’t wait to be there. It’s a dream come true, I believe a lot of players in their career want to be in this kind of atmosphere, get to this level but they never achieve that.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s past Olympics history, Ajibade noted that goalkeeper Tochukwu Oluehi is the only current squad member who featured at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.
She also acknowledged the historic milestone achieved by Perpetual Nkwocha, who scored Nigeria’s first Olympic goal in 2000 against China.
The Super Falcons, have been the most successful African side at the Olympics, reaching the quarter-finals in 2004.
With their return to the Olympics stage in Paris 2024, Ajibade and her teammates are aiming to make a significant impact and uphold Nigeria’s strong legacy in women’s football on the global stage.
