Payne thrilled to break five-year goal drought for Falcons

Nigeria and Everton midfielder Toni Payne has shared her joy after scoring her first international goal in five years. She netted the crucial second goal as the Super Falcons defeated Senegal 2-1 in a friendly match at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne on Friday, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

This goal is a big personal achievement for her, especially with the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations coming up.

Payne scored just four minutes before half-time. Shukurat Oladipo made a great pass to her. She took her time inside the box and finished the ball low past the Senegal goalkeeper to give Nigeria a two-goal lead.

This was only her second goal in 46 matches for the Super Falcons. Her first goal came back in 2021. This long wait for a goal happened even as Payne became a key player in the national team's midfield.

“I’m happy to score after almost five years, so just really good to do it here in Nigeria,” Payne said after the match.

Asisat Oshoala opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 31st minute. She confidently converted a penalty after a handball in the Senegal box. Oshoala is Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer, and she showed her skill with that penalty.

Senegal managed to pull one back with Sokhna Nogaye’s long-range shot in the 86th minute. This made the end of the match tense, but Nigeria held on to win.

For Payne, this goal was a special moment. She has worked hard to become a regular player for the Super Falcons.

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, her parents are Nigerian. She played for the United States at youth level, including the U.S. U-17 team that won the 2012 CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Championship. In 2019, she changed her international allegiance to Nigeria. She made her senior debut for the Super Falcons on February 18, 2021.

The Super Falcons, the defending champions, have been placed in Group C for the 2026 WAFCON. They will play against Zambia, Egypt, and Malawi. They will face Senegal again on Monday, June 8, in the second match of their friendly double-header. Head coach Justin Madugu is still looking at his options before the tournament.