Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide found the net in UD Tenerife's crushing 5-1 defeat to reigning champions Barcelona Femení in a Liga F matchday 11 clash at the Johan Cruyff Stadium on Sunday.
Babajide struck early, giving Tenerife an unexpected lead just three minutes into the game. She latched onto a pinpoint cross from María José Pérez and fired a left-footed finish into the top corner.
However, Barcelona quickly regained their footing, responding with goals from Irene Paredes, Ewa Pajor, Caroline Graham Hansen (penalty), Claudia Pina, and Esmee Brugts to seal an emphatic comeback victory.
Babajide, who was substituted off in the 65th minute for Jassina Blom, was one of the few bright sparks in Tenerife's otherwise disappointing performance.
A push for national team recognition
The former Liverpool forward had a mixed outing despite her early heroics. She managed only 22 touches during her 65-minute shift, with one shot on target, one off target, and no successful key passes.
Her dribbling success rate stood at 33%, and she struggled with accuracy, completing none of her five attempted passes. Babajide also contested seven ground duels, winning three, while losing possession 11 times.
Babajide's recent club performances are raising questions about her potential return to the Super Falcons squad. She last represented Nigeria during the Olympic qualifiers against South Africa but missed out on the Paris 2024 Olympic squad and subsequent friendlies against Algeria.
With three goals in nine league appearances this season, Babajide is averaging a goal every 214 minutes and boasts a conversion rate of 18%.
As Nigeria prepares for a friendly against France on November 30, the 26-year-old hopes her form with Tenerife will earn her a recall to Justin Madugu's squad. Babajide’s versatility and eye for goal could be key assets in strengthening the Falcons’ attack against top-tier opposition.
