Ekiti Queens' standout midfielder Salaudeen Rashidat has revealed her ambition to play for Nigeria and pursue a professional career abroad, even as her team faces slim chances of making the Super Six playoffs in the NWFL Premiership.
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Known for her calm presence on the pitch and her hijab clad appearance, Rashidat popularly called "Rashey Baller" has drawn inspiration from Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade in shaping her game. Her efforts this season have been instrumental, including her recent goal that secured a crucial 1-1 draw against Dannaz Ladies FC.
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Speaking after that match in Lagos, Rashidat acknowledged her team’s challenges. "We’ve not been doing well, but we needed a point in this game, which is why I tried to score," she said.
Ekiti Queens currently sit fourth in their group with 10 points, trailing third-placed Abia Angels by nine points with only three matches left. When asked about their playoff chances, Rashidat was realistic: "To be honest, I don’t think we can get the Super Six slot, but we have to finish well."
Still, her vision remains clear. "If I get the opportunity to play for the national team, I will grab it. I really wish to represent Nigeria, and I’m also aspiring to play abroad," she added.
Her discipline, leadership, and flair mark her as one to watch not just for Ekiti Queens, but for Nigeria’s football future.
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There’s something quietly powerful about Salaudeen Rashidat’s journey humble beginnings, honest words, and dreams that stretch far beyond the Ado-Ekiti skyline. In a league that continues to spotlight emerging talent, her story is proof that grit and grace can coexist.
She doesn’t boast or sugarcoat. Instead, she faces her team’s situation with realism: the Super Six is likely out of reach, but there’s pride in finishing strong. And yet, her ambitions burn bright. It’s that balance of team loyalty and personal drive that defines future stars.
Rashidat’s admiration for Rasheedat Ajibade is telling. She sees a path. And more importantly, she’s carving her version of it. Whether it's through her match-winning goals or her composed interviews, Rashidat represents a new wave of Nigerian players who bring both footballing flair and fierce self-belief.
For Ekiti Queens, she is more than just a goal machine she’s a foundation to build on. And for Nigerian football, she’s a reminder that the next Super Falcons icon could be rising from anywhere, even from a club battling mid-table mediocrity.
We believe in her dream. And we hope the right eyes are watching.
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Did You Know?
Salaudeen Rashidat wears a hijab while playing, joining a growing number of Muslim athletes breaking stereotypes in football.
Ekiti Queens joined the NWFL Premiership in 2023 and are one of the youngest clubs in the league.
The Super Six playoff in the NWFL determines the overall league champion and CAF Women’s Champions League representative.
Rasheedat Ajibade, Rashidat’s role model, currently plays for Atlético Madrid in Spain’s Liga F.
hails from Kwara State, a region that has produced several notable Nigerian footballers including former Super Eagles star, Sani Kaita.