Deborah Abiodun has been singled out by the Confederation of African Football as one of the five standout emerging talents to watch at the 2024 TotalEnergies WAFCON in Morocco. The 21 year old midfielder, currently plying her trade with Dallas Trinity FC in the United States, earned the moniker “Kante” due to her tireless ball‑winning displays and ability to sweep through midfield.
Abiodun made her senior Super Falcons debut during the Nigeria Cameroon friendlies, impressing with her energy and composure. CAF praised her work rate and tactical intelligence qualities likely to catch the eye as the tournament unfolds. The tournament kicks off on 5 July, with Nigeria drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Botswana and Algeria.
Abiodun is expected to play a key role in the Falcons’ midfield engine room.
Editorial
Looking for the best betting experience in Nigeria this January 2026? The Bet9ja promotion code for January 2026 is YOHAIG. With this exclusive code, new users can claim a generous welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on their first deposit. For comprehensive details about the Bet9ja promotion code 2026 in Nigeria, visit https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. Ready to elevate your betting experience? The YOHAIG Bet9ja Promotion Code 2026 unlocks exciting benefits. Start with just ₦100 as your minimum deposit! Begin your betting journey today by using the Bet9ja login signup and entering the Bet9ja bonus code when creating your account. Enjoy an impressive 170 per cent multiple boost bonus plus a free bet option for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To become a valued Bet9ja customer, simply complete the registration process here. Remember that terms and conditions apply when registering with Bet9ja to receive your bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We believe Deborah Abiodun’s emergence as a “Kante‑style” enforcer represents a turning point for the Super Falcons. Her combative style brings much‑needed grit to midfield, and this tournament could be where she cements her place in the squad. As fans, we’re encouraged by CAF’s recognition it’s validation not just of her talent, but of the growing depth in Nigerian women’s football.
Watching Abiodun in Dallas Trinity’s midfield, her tenacity reminded us of Didier Kante’s ability to cover every blade of grass. That comparison isn’t given lightly. It reflects a growing trend: young stars making waves globally are coming home to lift the Falcons.
Africa’s biggest stage demands players who hold the midfield together, not just cut loose in attack. Abiodun offers that anchor. Her inclusion signals a shift in squad building a balance between flair players and holding midfielders who bring stability under pressure.
We’re convinced that deploying Abiodun as both a sensor and shield could unlock the attacking talents around her. If she delivers on CAF’s early claims, the tournament could mark the rise of a midfield core capable of driving Nigeria deep into this WAFCON and beyond. That belief begins with her role, and we back it wholeheartedly.
Did You Know?
- Deborah Abiodun starred at Dallas Trinity FC, helping the team secure a conference title in the 2024–25 season.
- She captained Nigeria’s Flamingoes (U‑17) at the 2022 FIFA U‑17 Women’s World Cup.
- Abiodun’s off‑season training often includes sessions with former Super Falcons legend Halimatu Ayinde.
- She balances her football career with studies in Sports Psychology at a US college.
- The nickname “Kante” was first used by her Dallas teammates after a 5‑interception performance in a single match.
