Ajibade Injury Scare Raises Concern as Super Falcons Beat Comoros 5

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Ajibade Taken for MRI Scan After Collision

Nigeria’s commanding victory over Comoros in the 2028 Olympic qualifiers was accompanied by concern over the fitness of captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was taken to hospital for an MRI scan after suffering an injury during Tuesday’s match.

The Super Falcons won the second-leg encounter 5–0 at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, securing a 7–0 aggregate victory and progressing to the third round of the qualification campaign. However, Ajibade’s first-half collision raised questions about her availability for Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures.

Folashade Ijamilusi replaced the injured captain, while Nigeria continued its push for a place at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

How the Super Falcons Sealed Their 7–0 Aggregate Victory

Despite losing their captain early in the contest, Nigeria maintained its attacking momentum and produced five goals to complete a convincing victory over Comoros.

Toni Payne opened the scoring before adding a second goal to finish with a brace. Uchenna Kanu also scored twice after the break, while Christy Ucheibe converted a penalty to complete the scoring.

Half-time substitute Blessing Okpe made a notable contribution after entering the game. She assisted Payne’s second goal and won the penalty that Ucheibe converted.

The result followed Nigeria’s 2–0 win in the first leg, giving the Super Falcons a 7–0 aggregate success and a place in the third round.

Eguavoen Hopes Ajibade’s Injury Is Minor

Interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen expressed concern about losing the captain during the match but remained hopeful that the injury was not serious.

“Unfortunately, we lost Ajibade early in the game, but I think and I hope and I pray that the injury is very minor,” Eguavoen said.

Although the MRI scan had been arranged, the information provided does not establish a confirmed diagnosis or a return date for the captain. Her availability for Nigeria’s next fixture therefore remains uncertain.

Super Falcons Turn Attention to Olympic Qualification

Eguavoen also explained that the team had agreed to move beyond its disappointment at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and concentrate on the Olympic qualification campaign.

“At the first meeting we had, we collectively agreed that we put the WAFCON disappointment behind us and set our eyes on the gold medal in the Olympics,” he said.

The coach acknowledged that Nigeria would face stronger opposition as the qualifiers progressed, but expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to meet the challenge.

“Going forward, we expect to meet tougher oppositions, no doubt about that. Super Falcons are number one in Africa. We have the quality, we have the personnel, we have the support,” he added.

Morocco Awaits Nigeria in the Third Round

Nigeria will face Morocco in the third round of the 2028 Olympic qualifiers as the Super Falcons continue their pursuit of a place at the Los Angeles Games.

The 5–0 win over Comoros gives Nigeria a strong result to build on, but the next stage will present a tougher test, according to Eguavoen.

Ajibade’s condition is another issue to watch as the team prepares for the upcoming challenge. Until further medical information becomes available, her participation in the next round cannot be confirmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happened to Rasheedat Ajibade?

The Super Falcons captain suffered a collision during the first half of Nigeria’s match against Comoros and was taken to hospital for an MRI scan.

2. What was the final score between Nigeria and Comoros?

Nigeria won the second leg 5–0 at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

3. What was the aggregate score?

The Super Falcons advanced with a 7–0 aggregate victory after winning the first leg 2–0.

4. Who scored for the Super Falcons?

Toni Payne scored twice, Uchenna Kanu scored twice, and Christy Ucheibe converted a penalty.

5. Who will Nigeria face in the next round?

Nigeria will face Morocco in the third round of the 2028 Olympic qualifiers.

6. Will Ajibade play in the next round?

Her availability has not been confirmed in the information provided. The MRI scan was arranged to assess the injury, but no confirmed diagnosis or return date was supplied.

Key Takeaways

Rasheedat Ajibade was taken to hospital for an MRI scan after a first-half collision.
The Super Falcons defeated Comoros 5–0 in the second leg.
Nigeria advanced with a 7–0 aggregate victory.
Toni Payne and Uchenna Kanu each scored twice, while Christy Ucheibe added a penalty.
Nigeria will meet Morocco in the third round of the Olympic qualifiers.
Ajibade’s injury status remains uncertain pending further information.

The Super Falcons have progressed to the next round, but attention will now turn to their preparation for Morocco and any further update on their captain’s condition.

What do you think Nigeria needs to do to maintain its momentum against Morocco in the next round? Share your thoughts in the comments.