In a significant setback for Nigerian football, Halimatu Ayinde, the midfield maestro of the Super Falcons, has been ruled out of the Paris 2024 Olympics due to a severe knee injury, MySportDab Reports.
This blow comes as Nigeria prepares for its first Olympic appearance since 2008, with Ayinde expected to play a crucial role in the team’s campaign.
Ayinde, a standout player for FC Rosengård and a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s midfield, sustained the injury during a training session on Wednesday. Her absence from the squad was confirmed shortly after, sending shockwaves through the team’s preparations.
In a heartfelt message, the 27-year-old expressed her sorrow and determination: “It is with a heavy heart that I announce I will not be part of the Super Falcons squad for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics due to a knee injury sustained during practice yesterday. While it deeply saddens me to miss this prestigious tournament, I am incredibly grateful for the love and support I have received from my club, FC Rosengård, and my teammates, which ensured that my operation was a success.”
Despite her disappointment, Ayinde remains optimistic and supportive of her teammates as they head into the challenging tournament. “To my fellow Super Falcons, I wish you the best of luck as you represent Nigeria on the global stage. Your hard work and passion will undoubtedly shine through, and I have complete faith in your abilities to achieve great success. I will be cheering for you every step of the way and will be back soon, stronger than ever. Go Super Falcons!”
The Super Falcons have been drawn into Group C, where they will face formidable opponents in Brazil, Spain, and Japan. Nigeria’s campaign kicks off on July 25 against Brazil in Bordeaux, followed by matches against Spain on July 28 and Japan on July 31 in Nantes.
Ayinde’s injury is a significant blow to head coach Randy Waldrum’s squad, which will now need to regroup and find ways to compensate for the loss of their experienced and dynamic midfielder.
As Nigeria aims for its first-ever Olympic gold medal in women’s football, the team’s resilience and depth will be put to the test in her absence.
