The Super Falcons of Nigeria have been dealt a huge blow, with key player Halimatu Ayinde set to miss the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Ayinde, according to her club FC Rosengard in a post on X, injured her knee during training yesterday. The player then took to social media herself to announce she had undergone surgery.
The 29-year-old was named in Randy Waldrum's final 18-woman squad for the Olympics on Wednesday, July 3. Her absence is a huge blow for the Super Falcons, who depend on Ayinde for stability in the midfield.
Ayinde joined Rosengard FC in 2022 from Eskilstuna United.
Why the Super Falcons will miss Ayinde at the 2024 Olympics
Ayinde's impact on the pitch has been instrumental in Nigeria's journey to the Olympics. As a key midfielder, Ayinde's tactical intelligence and exceptional ball-handling skills have made her a linchpin in the Super Falcons' lineup.
Her ability to intercept plays, maintain possession, and create scoring opportunities has been crucial in high-stakes matches.
During the Olympic qualifiers especially in the double-header against South Africa, Ayinde's performances were nothing short of stellar, consistently dictating the pace of the game and providing defensive solidity.
Her vision and precise passing helped Nigeria secure vital victories en route to qualifying for the Olympics—their first since 2008.
The Rosegard FC's leadership and on-field presence inspired confidence in her teammates, making her an irreplaceable asset.
As Nigeria heads to the Olympics without her, the team will undoubtedly miss her strategic influence and the pivotal role she played in their successful qualification campaign.
Placed in Group C, Nigeria will face stiff competition from the reigning world champions, Spain, who are making their Olympics debut. Also, two-time Olympic silver medalists Brazil and London 2012 silver medalists Japan add to the formidable lineup of opponents.
