Halimatu Ayinde: Super Falcons unsung heroine anchoring midfield with class and grit at Wafcon

In a tournament marked by fierce competition and emerging talent, Super Falcons midfielder Halimatu Ayinde has distinguished herself as one of the standout performers at the ongoing Women's Africa Cup of Nations.

Her commanding displays in the heart of Nigeria’s midfield have not only turned heads but also reinforced her status as a key figure in the national team.

From the opening game against Tunisia, Ayinde has been a constant force — combining technical finesse with tactical discipline and relentless work rate.

Her ability to dictate the rhythm of play, disrupt opposition build-up, and launch attacks with pinpoint passing has proven crucial to the Super Falcons’ progress in the competition.

A hallmark of Ayinde’s game is her versatility. Equally comfortable shielding the defence or driving the attack, she effortlessly transitions between roles, offering both defensive solidity and creative spark.

Her on-field intelligence and sharp vision have created numerous scoring chances for her teammates, underlining her importance to Justin Madugu’s squad.

As Nigeria prepare for a high-stakes final against hosts Morocco, Ayinde will once again be central to the team’s ambitions of securing a record-extending tenth Wafcon title.

Her performances so far suggest she is more than ready for the challenge.

Ayinde, who plays her club football for FC Rosengard in Sweden, boasts a wealth of international experience.

The 30-year-old has previously lined up for Delta Queens in Nigeria, Western New York Flash in the United States and Swedish side Eskilstuna United — a journey that has shaped her into the midfield maestro the Super Falcons now rely on.

Arinze Ezike

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