'It feels really good': Toni Payne delighted after first Super Falcons goal in five years

Super Falcons midfielder Toni Payne is celebrating a triumphant return to the Nigerian national team, marking the occasion with her first international goal in almost five years during a morale-boosting 2-1 friendly victory over Senegal's Teranga Lionesses.

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I’m just happy to be back with the team, with my teammates and under the coach. I’m really satisfied with our performance.

Payne described the moment as special, expressing her thrill at being back with her teammates and under the current coaching staff. "I’m just happy to be back with the team, with my teammates and under the coach," Payne stated. "I’m really satisfied with our performance." The midfielder's strike was crucial in securing the win, serving as a significant confidence booster ahead of the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The goal itself was a product of excellent teamwork, with Payne quick to credit teammate Shukurat Oladipo for an "amazing" and intelligent pass that created the scoring opportunity. "It was a beautiful ball from Shukurat," Payne added. "She’s an amazing player and reads the game really well. For her to spot my run was fantastic."

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It was a beautiful ball from Shukurat. She’s an amazing player and reads the game really well. For her to spot my run was fantastic.

Payne's return to form and her goal carry particular significance given her international career trajectory. Having previously represented the USA at the youth level, she switched her allegiance to Nigeria, accumulating 46 appearances. Her versatility, technical skill, and growing influence are expected to be vital as the Super Falcons aim to defend their continental crown at WAFCON. The experienced midfielder's resurgence provides a major boost for coach Justine Madugu and the squad.

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I’m happy to score the goal. It’s my first in almost five years, so it feels really good to do it here at home in Nigeria.