Yusuf Named Girl Power United Coach Ahead of Zurich Showcase

In a significant step for female coaching representation, former Super Falcons defender Ayisat Yusuf has been appointed Head Coach of Girl Power United Afghans. This move comes in advance of the esteemed United Summer Tournament, set to take place in Zurich. Yusuf’s appointment signals a powerful blend of African leadership in a European women’s football event.

Yusuf brings a wealth of experience to the role. Since retiring in 2009, she has held notable positions most prominently as a coach in Finland’s youth football system, managing Viikingit FC’s U13 boys, and serving on the board of the FARE Network to combat racism in Europe. Her credentials also include being the first Nigerian woman to earn a UEFA B coaching licence, underscoring her technical proficiency.

She stated that taking charge of Girl Power United Afghans represents more than merely a coaching role it aligns with her enduring mission to empower women through sport. The Zurich tournament, renowned for its international visibility, offers a unique platform to amplify female African leadership. Preparations are already underway, with a focus on tactical cohesion and player well‑being.

Although tournament details remain forthcoming, the announcement marks a milestone Yusuf will make history as one of the few African women leading a team at a high‑profile European women’s tournament. In her words, “This is a dream I have worked towards—not just for myself, but for every young African woman striving to lead in football.”

Editorial

We believe Ayisat Yusuf’s new position heralds a transformative moment for women’s football especially in the realms of coaching diversity and African empowerment. When a former player of her stature steps into a leadership role on an international stage, it challenges age-old barriers and offers a vivid reminder talent and vision know no geography or gender.

We appreciate Yusuf’s multifaceted resume spanning grassroots development, anti‑racism advocacy, and professional coaching licences. She embodies the next generation of African leaders determined to shape the game from the touchlines as much as from the pitch. Her story reminds us that progress in women’s football relies on strong voices, continually shifting norms on who can coach and where.

We recognise the challenges she faces cultural adaptation, resource disparity, and the high stakes of an international tournament. Yet, Yusuf’s career has been defined by resilience and adaptability from Finland’s youth scene to the global grassroots platforms she supports. Those traits position her well for this opportunity.

We call on tournament organisers, sponsors and football federations to support her fully with investment in her team’s infrastructure, exposure and post‑tournament growth. In granting her this role, Zurich has made a statement; now they must reinforce it with tangible backing.

We stand by her vision that African women not only belong in global football leadership, but that they are reshaping it. Ayisat Yusuf’s journey from Super Falcons defender to European coach sends a powerful message a new narrative of possibility for all.

Did You Know?

1. Ayisat Yusuf became the first Nigerian woman to earn a UEFA B coaching licence after retiring in 2009 .
2. She is vice‑chair of the Finnish chapter of ex‑international athletes and a board member of UEFA‑aligned FARE Network, promoting anti‑racism.
3. Her coaching experience includes managing multi‑cultural girls’ teams and leading U13 boys in Finland’s Viikingit FC.
4. Yusuf previously founded the SheFootball Conference and Ayisat Yusuf Football Academy in Lagos, empowering grassroots female footballers.
5. She earned over 68 senior caps for Nigeria and competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics with the Super Falcons.