Super Falcons winger Rinsola Babajide has explained why she celebrated her WAFCON goal against Tunisia with Diogo Jota’s signature gesture, NaijNaira can report.
Her celebration came just hours after news broke that Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother had died in a car crash.
Babajide, who once wore Jota’s iconic number 20 shirt at Liverpool, found the moment deeply personal.
“It was for Diogo Jota and his brother as well,” she said in her post-match interview with Victor Ademola. “That was like one of the biggest celebrations at the club.”
She added, “He was one of my best players when I was at Liverpool. May the souls of both of them rest in peace.”
Rinsola made her mark on her WAFCON debut with a goal and an assist, helping Nigeria secure a 3–0 win over Tunisia.
Her goal in the first half was a clinical left-footed finish that doubled Nigeria’s lead just before the break.
Babajide called the goal a “relief,” saying, “I’ve had a few assists but always missed that first goal. I’m just happy to get that out of the way.”
She said the team is aiming for the title now and wants to keep improving with every game.
Liverpool have since retired Jota’s number 20 jersey and committed to paying out the rest of his contract to support his family.
Jota played 182 games for the Reds, scoring 65 goals and winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and two Carabao Cups.
He leaves behind a wife and three children, with tributes pouring in from teammates and fans around the world.
Article updated 3 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
