Yan Nigeria
Super Falcons midfielder, Toni Payne has declared that choosing to represent Nigeria over the United States remains one of the most fulfilling decisions of her life.
Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-final clash with Zambia, Toni Payne told Biola Solace-Chukwu that the decision to switch allegiances was driven not just by career prospects but by a deep yearning to reconnect with her heritage.
“Even though I did grow up with dreams of playing for the US, when I had the opportunity to play for Nigeria, it was almost a no-brainer and a no question for me. So, yeah, no regrets,” she said.
Born and raised in the United States, Payne was once seen as a future star for the American women’s national team. But the call of her roots proved stronger.
“I love being a part of something bigger than myself,” she said. “I love to be around my culture that I didn’t get to be around all the time growing up in the US. I love to represent my family. There’s just so much passion and love for the sport here that you don’t see every day.”
Now a mainstay in Nigeria’s midfield, Payne is not only thriving on the pitch but also using her platform to encourage other dual-nationality players to follow their hearts.
“It just comes down to what’s in a player’s heart and where they feel more of a connection,” she explained. “I got incredibly lucky that I had the opportunity to play for Nigeria. Not everyone gets that chance. If given the opportunity, just go with your heart and whatever is going to make your dreams come true.”
The 2024 WAFCON marks Payne’s second appearance at the continental tournament. With more experience under her belt, she believes the Super Falcons are better prepared for the challenges ahead.
“It feels really good to go into this tournament with more experience,” she noted. “It’s been nice to be more immersed in African football, and we’re super excited to be here.”
Nigeria topped Group B with seven points, ahead of Algeria, Tunisia, and Botswana, and now face Zambia in the quarter-finals on Friday in Casablanca.
Acknowledging the threat posed by Zambia and their talismanic forward Barbra Banda, Payne remained confident in the Falcons’ readiness.
“Zambia are a strong team with really good attackers, like Barbra Banda,” she said. “We respect every team we play, but we’re prepared for whatever they’re going to throw at us. Our goal was to top the group and keep a clean sheet, and we achieved both. We’re fairly confident going into the next match.”
Beyond the competition, Payne shared a personal highlight, playing alongside her younger sister, Nicole Payne, also a Super Falcons player.
“Every time we get an opportunity to be on the field at the same time, it feels amazing. It’s such a heartwarming feeling,” she said.
The post Toni Payne: “No Regrets” For Choosing Nigeria Over USA appeared first on Naija News.
