Super Falcons Captain Ajibade set for ankle surgery, may miss rest of 2026

By Tosin Omojola

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade is scheduled to undergo ankle surgery in France on Friday, October 16, in a procedure that could sideline her for the remainder of 2026.

According to a reliable source, the 27-year-old forward requires surgery following an ankle injury sustained during Nigeria’s 5-0 victory over Comoros in the second leg of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games qualifiers.

Ajibade suffered the injury in the 23rd minute of Tuesday’s encounter at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State. She was stretchered off after receiving treatment on the pitch, with Folashade Ijamilusi coming on as her replacement.

Despite losing their captain to injury, the Super Falcons secured a 7-0 aggregate victory to advance to the next round of the Olympic qualifying campaign.

Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen disclosed after the match that Ajibade had been taken to the hospital for an MRI scan to determine the extent of the injury. The subsequent medical assessment has led to plans for surgery.

Although the length of her recovery will depend on her rehabilitation progress, the forward is expected to face an extended spell on the sidelines, potentially ruling her out for the rest of the year.

Ajibade’s absence would be a significant setback for the Super Falcons, given her attacking quality, work rate and leadership. Her immediate priority will be a successful operation and a carefully managed rehabilitation programme to facilitate her return to competitive football.