Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide paid a moving tribute to late Liverpool forward Diogo Jota after scoring her first-ever goal for Nigeria in their 3-0 win over Tunisia in the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations opener on Sunday.

 

Babajide, 26, who played for Liverpool Women between 2018 and 2022, netted Nigeria’s second goal in first-half stoppage time at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. After blasting the ball past Tunisian goalkeeper Soulaima Jabrani, she dropped to the turf and replicated Jota’s trademark goal celebration — a touching homage to the Portuguese forward who tragically passed away in a car accident last Thursday.

 

“It was a very emotional moment for me,” Babajide said after the match. “Diogo Jota was a great player and a true Red. That celebration was for him.”

 

Babajide’s tribute resonated deeply with fans of both Liverpool and the Nigerian national team. Though the two never played together, their shared connection to the Merseyside club made the gesture especially poignant.

 

The goal marked a perfect debut for Babajide in Nigeria’s green and white, as she delivered a standout performance in the Group B clash. Known for her pace and precision on the flank, she also assisted in creating Nigeria’s opener — a floated free kick met by Asisat Oshoala for the opening goal in the fourth minute.

 

Her emotional goal and powerful performance added a heartfelt layer to Nigeria’s dominant display, as the nine-time champions made a strong statement in their campaign for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

 

Head coach Randy Waldrum praised Babajide’s composure and spirit: “Rinsola showed great character today. Not just the goal — but the way she handled herself, honoring a teammate in spirit, was powerful.”

 

Nigeria next face Botswana on July 9, as the Super Falcons look to build on their winning start in pursuit of continental glory — with Babajide’s heartfelt moment already one of the tournament’s early highlights.