‘My spirits are high’ – Rasheedat Ajibade speaks on ankle injury after Nigeria scare

Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade has moved to ease concerns over her ankle injury, confirming that scans and medical consultations are ongoing following the setback she suffered during the Super Falcons’ 2028 Olympic qualifier against Comoros.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward was forced off in the 23rd minute of the second leg after a collision, with Folashade Ijamilusi introduced as her replacement.

Reports subsequently suggested that the 26-year-old could require surgery and face an extended period on the sidelines, raising concerns over her availability for club and country.

However, Ajibade has yet to receive a definitive diagnosis and says further information will be communicated when it becomes available.

Taking to X after the international break, the Super Falcons skipper expressed gratitude for the support she has received while providing an update on her condition.

“At the moment, I’m doing okay and my spirits are high,” she wrote.

The forward also stressed that her immediate priority is recovery, with the aim of returning to action stronger for both Nigeria and her club.

Ajibade addresses injury fears

Ajibade acknowledged the concern surrounding the incident and assured supporters that the medical team was continuing its assessments.

“I also want to address the incident that happened to me during the second leg against Comoros. Scans and medical consultations are ongoing, and more updates will be shared when available,” she said.

Her statement offers some reassurance amid speculation about the severity of the injury, although the possibility of surgery remains unconfirmed.

The Super Falcons captain did not provide a timeline for her return, leaving her recovery prospects dependent on the outcome of the ongoing medical examinations.

Ajibade’s injury will be a concern for Nigeria as she remains an important figure in the national team, both for her contributions on the pitch and her leadership.

The forward’s immediate focus, however, is on completing the necessary assessments before determining the next steps in her recovery.

Super Falcons captain proud of Olympic campaign start

Despite the personal setback, Ajibade reflected positively on Nigeria’s opening steps in their quest to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games.

The captain praised her teammates for their commitment and unity during the international window, highlighting the collective effort behind the team’s start to the qualifying campaign.

“Another international break has come to an end, and I’m grateful,” she wrote.

“It is an honour to lead this group of women. I am proud of how our team began its road to the Olympics, and of the unity, discipline and fight each player brought to the national team.”

Her comments underlined her pride in the squad’s performance while reinforcing the importance of the team’s collective ambition as Nigeria pursue a place at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

Ajibade also acknowledged the support she received from her teammates, family, technical and medical staff, and the fans following her injury.

“To everyone who reached out with messages, prayers and kind words, thank you from the bottom of my heart. To my teammates, family, technical and medical staff, and our fans, I felt every bit of your love and support,” she added.

Recovery now the priority

Ajibade’s next steps will depend on the findings of the medical assessments, with no confirmed return date announced.

The uncertainty surrounding her ankle injury leaves Nigeria and Paris Saint-Germain awaiting further information on the captain’s condition.

For now, the forward remains positive and determined to focus on rehabilitation rather than speculation about the length of her absence.

“For now, my focus is on recovery and returning stronger for club and country,” she said.

Further updates are expected once the ongoing scans and consultations provide a clearer picture of the injury and the treatment required.