Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide has paid a touching tribute to late Portugal international Diogo Jota following her maiden goal for Nigeria.
The 26-year-old was on target in the team’s emphatic 3-0 win over Tunisia at the Labri Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
Babajide netted Nigeria’s second goal on Sunday night after veteran Asisat Oshoala had opened scoring. Yet, it wasn’t just the strike that drew attention – it was her heartfelt celebration that followed.
After finding the back of the net, Babajide raised her hands to the sky in a symbolic gesture, imitating Jota’s signature celebration. While the moment sparked curiosity, her post-match explanation brought clarity – and emotion.
“It was for Diogo Jota and his brother as well,” she said, recalling the Liverpool star’s tragic passing. “That was like one of his biggest celebrations at the club especially.”
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The pair shared a brief connection through Liverpool, where Babajide spent four years with the club’s women’s side before moving to Brighton. Jota, a key player for the men’s team, died alongside his brother in a devastating car crash in Spain last week.
Although their paths may not have crossed directly, Babajide revealed that Jota left a lasting impression on her during her time at Anfield. “He was like one of my best players at the club when I was there,” she admitted.
With emotion in her voice, Babajide added, “I just wanted to do something for him. It was only right.”
The celebration quickly gained traction on social media. Many praised her for the thoughtful gesture, saying it captured the spirit of football’s shared humanity.
Babajide is hoping to continue her fine form while inspiring more moments that resonate beyond the pitch.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace, both of them,” she concluded, with reverence and grace.
Meanwhile, substitute Chiwendu Ihezuo scored the third goal for the West Africans. Nigeria will face Botswana in their next group game on Thursday. Algeria defeated Botswana 1-0 in the other Group B encounter on Sunday.
Tags: Omorinsola Babajide, Super Falcons, #SoarSuperFalcons, #MissionX, #WAFCON2024, Tunisia, Asisat Oshoala, Chiwendu Ihezuo.
