Former Liverpool forward Rinsola Babajide has opened up about her decision to represent Nigeria over England, describing it as one of the best choices she has made in her football career. The Super Falcons winger, who was born and raised in London to Nigerian parents, says she feels privileged to have experienced the best of both football cultures.
A Journey Through Two Football Cultures
Babajide initially represented England at youth levels, playing for the Under-19, Under-20, and Under-21 teams. She helped England secure a bronze medal at the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup. At club level, she progressed through the ranks at Crystal Palace, Millwall Lionesses, and Watford before joining Liverpool in 2018. Her time at Anfield was particularly successful; she finished the 2019/20 season as Liverpool Women's leading goalscorer and was named the club's Women's Player of the Season.
After moving to Spanish side Real Betis in 2022, Babajide decided to switch her international allegiance to Nigeria. She made her Super Falcons debut in 2023 and has since become a key attacking player for the team.
Grateful for Both Nations
In an interview published by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Babajide expressed gratitude for her development in England while highlighting how Nigeria has helped her grow further. "I've been blessed to have the best of two worlds. England helped me develop my game from age-grade football; I am forever grateful for that. I have continued to grow as an experienced player with Nigeria and I do not take this for granted," she said.
The 27-year-old added that the contrasting experiences in both countries have taught her valuable lessons about resilience, discipline, and professionalism, shaping her into a more complete footballer.
Targeting Back-to-Back WAFCON Titles
Babajide played an important role in Nigeria's successful 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign in Morocco, contributing a goal and an assist in the opening group-stage victory over Tunisia. The Super Falcons went on to win a record-extending 10th continental title.
Now, her focus is on the 2026 WAFCON, scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 26 to August 16. Babajide is determined to help Nigeria defend their title. "The squad understands the expectations that come with wearing the famous green jersey and is fully focused on making Nigerians proud once again," she stated.
Criticism of CAF Over Tournament Postponement
Earlier, Babajide had expressed strong frustration over the postponement of the 2026 WAFCON by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), just days before the tournament was set to begin. The delay has raised questions about the organization of women's football events in Africa and the impact on players' preparations.
