As the Super Falcons of Nigeria prepare for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), one of the tournament’s most exciting debutants, Rinsola Babajide, is poised to bring pace, passion, and purpose to Africa’s grandest football stage.
A skillful forward with English roots and Nigerian pride, Rinsola is one of the fresh additions to a talented Super Falcons squad aiming to achieve Mission X — the audacious pursuit of a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, more than any other men’s or women’s national team on the continent.
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“It’s an honor to play for Nigeria,” Rinsola says. “I want my debut senior silverware. I want to contribute to the team — goals, assists, everything.”
From England to Nigeria: A Full-Circle Journey
Born Omorinsola Omowunmi Ajike Babajide on June 17, 1998, in England to Nigerian parents, Rinsola’s football journey began in South London.
She represented England at various youth levels, including the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, where she helped the Lionesses clinch a bronze medal.
But in October 2023, she made the switch many Nigerian fans had long hoped for — debuting for the Super Falcons in an Olympic qualifier against Ethiopia.
It marked the culmination of a dream rooted in heritage, shaped by ambition, and driven by a desire to connect with her Nigerian identity.
Club Career: Resilience and Rise
Rinsola’s club career began with Crystal Palace, but her professional debut came with Millwall Lionesses in 2015. A breakout spell at Watford followed, where she finished as joint top scorer in the FA WSL Spring Series.
She then joined Liverpool, quickly establishing herself as a key attacker with blistering pace and trickery.
Though her time at the club ended with limited appearances and a well-publicized refusal to train, Rinsola bounced back with a loan to Brighton & Hove Albion, and later made a transformative move to Spain.
At UDG Tenerife, she has blossomed. Her 2024–25 Liga F campaign is proof: 10 goals and 5 assists in 26 matches. It’s a form that underlines her readiness to shine on the continental stage.
Playing with Passion, Missing Home
Beyond the goals and accolades lies a young woman deeply connected to her family and culture.
“I sing a little,” she says with a smile. “And I miss my parents, my family, and my boyfriend.”
That vulnerability adds a powerful emotional layer to her WAFCON journey. For Rinsola, wearing the green and white is about more than football — it’s about honoring her roots, carrying her loved ones with her, and embracing the pride of representing Nigeria.
Now part of a squad packed with experienced campaigners and guided by head coach Justin Madugu, Rinsola brings a fresh spark and attacking versatility to Nigeria’s quest. Her contributions at Tenerife — 15 goal involvements in 26 games — show exactly what she can offer the Super Falcons in decisive moments.
As the Super Falcons aim for a historic la décima, Rinsola Babajide steps onto the WAFCON stage not just as a newcomer, but as a player determined to make a mark — for herself, for her family, and for her country.
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