Nigerian Star Ajibade's Heroics Propel PSG to Cup Final Dream

Published 2 hours ago3 minute read
Precious Eseaye
Precious Eseaye
Nigerian Star Ajibade's Heroics Propel PSG to Cup Final Dream

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade made a triumphant return to action, guiding Paris Saint-Germain Women into the final of the Coupe LFFP with a commanding 3-0 victory over city rivals Paris FC Women. Ajibade, who was among the goal scorers, played a pivotal role in securing PSG's dominance for the second time in a week against Paris FC, following an identical league scoreline. Her excitement was palpable, taking to social media to declare, “on to the final,” reflecting the team’s ambition for silverware.

The semi-final match, held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, started cautiously, with both teams struggling to create significant opportunities in the initial stages. Paris FC nearly broke the deadlock in the 10th minute when Klaudia Jedlinska’s angled shot struck the crossbar. However, the dynamics of the game shifted dramatically after the break. PSG elevated their tempo and asserted control, leading to Romée Leuchter breaking the deadlock just two minutes into the second half with a calm finish. Merveille Kanjinga extended PSG’s advantage in the 60th minute, firmly putting them in command of the contest.

As Paris FC players began to tire, Ajibade provided a spectacular finish to the night. The Nigeria international found space inside the box in the 89th minute and coolly guided a well-placed shot past goalkeeper Tara Elimbi Gilbert, sealing the 3-0 victory. This crucial goal capped a dominant display and propelled PSG one step closer to lifting the trophy in the inaugural edition of the competition. For Ajibade, it was a particularly symbolic moment, marking her return to the scoresheet after a period on the sidelines.

Ajibade's impactful return follows a challenging period of injury. Her momentum was cruelly interrupted on November 20, 2025, during a UEFA Women's Champions League clash against FC Bayern Munich Frauen, where she sustained an injury after providing an assist. Before this setback, she had opened her PSG account with a stunning strike against Real Madrid Femenino in the UWCL, showcasing her big-game pedigree. Her goal against Paris FC confirmed that her sharpness remained undiminished, a strong statement after months of recovery.

The 26-year-old forward joined the French giants in 2025 after four successful seasons with Atlético Madrid Women, where she clinched both the Copa de la Reina and the Spanish Super Cup. Now settled in France, Ajibade is quickly becoming one of PSG’s key players, renowned for her pace, movement, and calm finishing. Her comeback has been met with immense celebration by Nigerian football fans, who affectionately call her “Mummy G.O.” for her outspoken faith and leadership. Her timely resurgence is particularly significant with the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) scheduled for March, restoring belief for the Nigerian national team.

With the Coupe LFFP final against Lyon looming, and continental duty on the horizon, Ajibade has a prime opportunity to crown her comeback with her first piece of silverware in French football. This victory not only adds significant firepower for PSG at a critical juncture of the season but also symbolizes a powerful redemption narrative, suggesting that her

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