AFCON 2025
Nigeria international Nicole Payne has made an inspiring return from injury after scoring her first professional goal for Orlando Pride following a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an ACL tear.
The Nigerian defender had been ruled out for the 2025 season after suffering a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament injury, a setback that also kept her away from the Nigeria women’s national football team.
Payne marked her comeback in style by finding the back of the net in her first start for Orlando, completing a remarkable recovery journey that has drawn praise from fans and teammates alike.
The 24-year-old previously made history alongside her older sister, Toni Payne, in 2021 when the pair became the first sisters to play together for the Super Falcons.
Her return is expected to boost both Orlando Pride and Nigeria ahead of upcoming competitions, with many supporters hopeful that the versatile defender can rediscover her best form after overcoming one of football’s toughest injuries.
