Despite her outstanding performances for the Super Falcons and Atlético Madrid, Rasheedat Ajibade was overlooked for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, which was given to Zambia’s Barbara Banda. Ajibade’s teammate, Chiamaka Nnadozie, made the final shortlist and was named Best Female Goalkeeper for the second consecutive year.
Ajibade did, however, receive significant recognition elsewhere. She was honoured with the Hyundai Sports Values Trophy at the IV European Women’s Football Gala in Spain for her humanitarian work through the Rasheedat Ajibade Foundation. Her foundation focuses on empowering underprivileged young women, with a current initiative to sponsor 50 students’ educational expenses for the coming year.
In footballing terms, Ajibade has been in excellent form this season, contributing five goals and two assists in nine games for Atlético Madrid. However, she is currently sidelined with a back injury, which kept her out of Atlético’s recent defeat to Real Betis in the Primera División.
Ajibade, along with Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, and Asisat Oshoala, was included in the FIFPro Women’s Team of the Year, further cementing her place among the top players in women’s football.
Editorial
Rasheedat Ajibade’s story is a powerful reminder that excellence extends beyond the football pitch. While her omission from the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award raises eyebrows, her recognition in Spain underlines the importance of celebrating multifaceted contributions to society. Through her humanitarian efforts, Ajibade demonstrates that athletes can be agents of positive change, using their platform to address pressing societal issues.
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On the field, Ajibade has proven herself an indispensable asset to Atlético Madrid and the Super Falcons. Her attacking prowess, vision, and leadership make her one of the most exciting players in women’s football today. Despite her current injury, her impressive record this season speaks to her resilience and commitment to excellence.
The recognition of Ajibade and her teammates in the FIFPro Women’s Team of the Year is a testament to the growing influence of Nigerian women in football. It also highlights the urgent need for more investment in women’s football across Africa, ensuring that players receive the support they need to excel both on and off the field.
While awards are a significant form of recognition, they are not the sole measure of an athlete’s impact. Ajibade’s achievements, combined with her humanitarian efforts, exemplify the power of sport to inspire and uplift communities.
Did You Know?
- Rasheedat Ajibade is the first Nigerian female footballer to be honoured with the Hyundai Sports Values Trophy.
- Chiamaka Nnadozie is one of the youngest players to win the CAF Best Goalkeeper award back to back.
- Ajibade’s foundation focuses on education, health, and empowerment for young women in Nigeria.
- Michelle Alozie, another Super Falcons player in the FIFPro Women’s Team, balances professional football with a career in medical research.
- Asisat Oshoala, a fellow team member, has won the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award five times, the most by any African female footballer.
