Nigeria’s Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum has been dealt a major blow ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, as key midfielder Halimatu Ayinde has been ruled out due to a knee injury, Soccernet.ng reports.
Ayinde, a standout player for Rosengard FC, was named in the 18-woman squad announced by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) just yesterday.
Ayinde's injury occurred during a training session, and her club confirmed today that she will not be fit to participate in the Olympics.
In a statement, Rosengard FC expressed their disappointment and wished her a speedy recovery.
This news disrupts Waldrum's plans as he had counted on Ayinde to help Nigeria navigate a challenging group stage against Spain, Japan, and Brazil.
“Halimatu Ayinde injured her knee during training and will miss the Olympics. We wish her a speedy recovery,” the club said.
Waldrum will now need to find a replacement from the alternate list, which includes Gift Monday, Ifeoma Onumonu, Jumoke Alani, and Morufat Ademola.
This unexpected change could impact the team’s strategy and performance in the tournament.
Ayinde has been a pivotal player for both her club and country.
She joined Rosengard FC in 2022 from Eskilstuna United and was instrumental in Nigeria’s impressive run at the World Cup last year.
The Super Falcons surprised many by advancing from a tough group that included co-hosts Australia, Canada, and the Republic of Ireland.
Discovered from local women’s league side Delta Queens, Ayinde made her mark with Nigeria’s U17 and U20 teams before debuting for the senior team in 2015. Her absence will be keenly felt by the Super Falcons as they prepare for the Olympics.
