Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, the Super Falcons, currently faces a shortage of options at the centre-forward position. Key players such as Rinsola Babajide of UD Granadilla Tenerife, reigning CAF Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, Chinwendu Ihezuo from Pachuca, and Ifeoma Onumonu of Montpellier HSC come to mind, but their longevity in the squad is uncertain.

Oshoala recently turned thirty, making it likely she won’t continue her reign as the undisputed queen of women’s football in Africa during this year’s CAF awards. Similarly, Onumonu’s age and inconsistencies at the international level raise questions about her future contributions.

This scenario leaves younger talents like Ihezuo and Babajide, who have yet to secure a starting position at the club level and tend to perform better in a supporting role or on the wings. Ihezuo, while undeniably talented, struggles with inconsistency and decision-making in front of goal.

However, there is a reason for optimism: Rachael Adedini is on the rise.

Born to Nigerian parents in Le Havre, France, on June 20, 2009, the 15-year-old striker currently plays for Manchester United’s academy team.

Adedini began her football journey at French club FC ML Ingre, where she spent three years (2018-2021) before moving to US Orléans LF in October 2021. Less than a year later, she made the switch to Manchester United.

Though capped five times at the U17 level for France and scoring four goals, Adedini qualifies to represent Nigeria through her heritage. She was part of the French squad that competed in the 2024 UEFA U17 Women’s Championships in Sweden, where France was eliminated in the semi-finals after a heavy loss to Spain.

Adedini showcased her talent with a stunning 13-minute hat-trick in an 8-0 victory over Norway and scored another goal against Sweden in the group stages. To represent Nigeria, she will need to apply for a one-time nationality switch.

The Nigerian Football Federation should act swiftly to pursue this young striker and enhance the Super Falcons’ squad depth.