| Name: | Deborah Abiodun |
| Nickname: | Kante |
| Date of Birth | 01 – 11 – 2003 |
| Position | Defensive Midfielder (DMF) / Central Midfielder (CMF) / Attacking Midfielder (AMF) |
| Height | 1.67m |
| Preferred Foot | Both |
| Age | 19 |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Club/Scholarship Program | Rivers Angels F.C / University of Pittsburgh Women’s Soccer Team |
| Place of Birth | Ibadan |
Deborah Ajibola Abiodun, popularly known as “Kante,” is a rising star in Nigerian women’s football. Born and raised in Ibadan, Nigeria, Deborah has been passionate about football since her childhood, and her incredible game vision has set her apart as a formidable force on the field.
Deborah Abiodun began her professional journey with Rivers Angels Football Club in the Nigerian women’s premier league. Her exceptional performances caught the attention of talent scouts, leading to a full scholarship offer from the University of Pittsburgh’s women’s soccer team in the United States. This significant move abroad further showcased her immense potential.
Playing primarily as a defensive midfielder (DMF), Deborah’s versatility allows her to contribute effectively as a central midfielder (CMF) and attacking midfielder (AMF) as well. She possesses an outstanding range of skills and qualities that make her a standout player in the midfield.
- Technicality: Deborah exhibits impressive technical skills, including precise passing, ball control, and tactical awareness.
- Brave: Despite her young age, she displays remarkable bravery on the field, fearlessly challenging opponents and executing critical tackles.
- Power: Her physical strength and athleticism give her an edge in battles for possession, making her a dominant force in midfield duels.
- Energy: Deborah’s boundless energy allows her to cover the ground effectively, contributing both defensively and offensively throughout the game.
- Rugged: Her tenacity and determination make her a rugged presence in midfield, disrupting opponents’ attacks and leading by example.
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Deborah’s rapid rise in the sport led to her selection for Nigeria’s women’s national under-20 football team. As her performances continued to impress, she earned a call-up to the Nigerian Super Falcons, the senior women’s national team, coached by Randy Waldrum. This dual role as a player for both the University of Pittsburgh and the Super Falcons is a testament to her exceptional talent and commitment to the sport.
In 2023, at the young age of 19, Deborah made her FIFA Women’s World Cup debut for Nigeria against Canada. Despite the match ending in a goalless draw, her solid performance garnered attention, even though she received a red card during stoppage time after a VAR review. Her awareness on the field and ability to read the game have been crucial to her success.
With accomplishments at both the club and international levels, Deborah has proven herself as one of the midfield maestros of the future. She played a vital role in Rivers Angels’ success in the NWFL Premiership and the CAF Women’s Champions League, as well as the Falconets’ impressive run in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
Deborah “Kante” Abiodun’s move to the University of Pittsburgh offers her a platform to further develop her skills and gain exposure to top-level competition. With her track record and experience, she is poised to achieve great things both in Nigerian women’s football and on the global stage. As her career continues to flourish, she remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring female footballers across the world.
