Super Falcons midfielder Halimatu Ayinde has pulled out of the women’s football event of the 2024 Olympic Games due to a knee injury sustained during a training session at her club, FC Rosengård Malmö, on Wednesday.
The 29-year-old was one of 18 players listed by coach Randy Waldrum for the quadrennial sports fiesta and announced by the Nigeria Football Federation on Wednesday.
She broke the sad news in a statement on her Instagram page on Thursday along with a picture of her left leg in cast.
She wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that I announce I will not be part of the Super Falcons squad participating in the upcoming France 2024 Olympics due to a knee injury sustained during practice yesterday. While it deeply saddens me to miss this prestigious tournament, I am incredibly grateful for the love and support I have received from my club, FC Rosengård, and my teammates, which ensured that my operation was a success.
“To my fellow Super Falcons, I wish you the best of luck as you represent Nigeria on the global stage. Your hard work and passion will undoubtedly shine through, and I have complete faith in your abilities to achieve great success. I will be cheering for you every step of the way and will be back soon, stronger than ever.
“Go Super Falcons.”
Ayinde was one of five midfielders listed for the summer event, the others being Deborah Abiodun, Christy Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini and Toni Payne.
Her absence means Waldrum needs to scurry the globe for a replacement since there is no midfielder among the alternate players, Jumoke Alani, Ifeoma Onumonu, Gift Monday, and Morufa Ademola.