Everton Women have warmly congratulated Toni Payne following her inclusion in the 24 player Nigeria squad for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. Head coach Justin Madugu confirmed Payne as one of six midfielders chosen for the tournament. Everton posted on X " Congratulations, Toni Good luck with Naija ".
At 30, Payne brings a wealth of international experience. She featured in the 2022 WAFCON (where Nigeria secured fourth place), the Round of 16 exit at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the 2024 Paris Olympics. Having joined Everton Women in July 2024 from Sevilla where she notched 30 goals and 21 assists in 169 appearances she is now the only Nigerian in the Barclays WSL.
WAFCON 2024 is scheduled from 5 to 26 July 2025, with Nigeria kicking off their campaign in Group B against Tunisia (6 July), Botswana (10 July) and Algeria (13 July).
Editorial
We applaud Everton’s celebration of Toni Payne’s national team honour a gesture that goes beyond recognition; it’s a testament to the unity between club and country. Payne’s rise at Everton is evidence of her determination and ambition, unfolding at the intersection of club prominence and international acclaim.
Her appointment to the Super Falcons squad aligns with a career rooted in consistent excellence from WSL performances to key moments on the international stage. Everton’s spotlight on her echoes their confidence in her talent and it signals a broader truth: club support nurtures national success.
In the to WAFCON, coherence between club and country is invaluable. Everton’s endorsement provides a strong foundation for Payne’s journey in Morocco. It’s this harmony that empowers players to flourish under pressure, embodying both local devotion and national pride.
Our stance is clear: when motivators like Everton and the Nigerian federation unite, they build the pillars of greatness. Toni Payne stands at the heart of this synergy, a proud representation of ambition and national identity.
Did You Know?
Payne is the only Nigerian player currently featured in England’s Barclays WSL.
She joined Everton Women in July 2024 on a free transfer after a six‑year spell at Sevilla, where she managed 30 goals and 21 assists.
Toni starred at Paris 2024, featuring in all three Super Falcons matches at the Olympics.
In a February 2025 WSL match versus Leicester City, she delivered two assists, helping Everton to a 4‑1 win.
She and her sister Nicole made history at the 2022 WAFCON as the first sisters to start together for Nigeria in a competitive fixture.
