Nigeria’s Super Falcons star, Shukurat Oladipo has taken European football by storm, earning the prestigious Best Defender award in Italy’s Serie A Women after a sensational 2025–26 campaign with AS Roma Women.
At just 21 years old, the Nigeria women’s national football team defender has not only conquered Italy but firmly announced herself as one of Africa’s brightest defensive talents on the global stage.
Award Glory After Dominant Title-Winning Season
Shukurat Oladipo earned her recognition at the end of a remarkable season for Roma, who sealed the Serie A Women title in style with a 2–0 victory over Genoa Women on the final day.
Her brilliance didn’t go unnoticed, as she was also named in the Serie A Women Team of the Year, alongside teammates:
- Manuela Giugliano
- Giada Greggi
- Giulia Dragoni
Together, they formed the backbone of a Roma side that dominated domestically.
Defensive Rock: The Numbers Behind Her Rise
Oladipo’s impact wasn’t just visible, it was statistical.
In Serie A Women:
- 18 appearances (15 starts)
- 11 clean sheets while on the pitch
- Unbeaten in every league match she featured in
Her defensive contributions were elite:
- 27 interceptions
- 27 tackles
- 70 clearances
- 104 recoveries
- All achieved in just 1,398 minutes
Those numbers underline why Roma boasted one of the strongest defensive records in the league.
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Breakout Season on the European Stage
Across all competitions, Oladipo featured 30 times, including her debut in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Her rapid adaptation to elite European football has been nothing short of extraordinary, especially for a player in her first full season in Italy.
From FC Robo Queens to European Elite
Before her rise in Italy, Shukurat Oladipo honed her craft with FC Robo Queens, a club known for producing top Nigerian talent.
Her journey reflects the growing influence of Nigerian players in global women’s football, with Oladipo now becoming a symbol of that expanding legacy.
Oladipo’s success strengthens Nigeria’s presence across Europe, with more Super Falcons stars making waves in top leagues.
Her consistency, composure, and defensive intelligence have made her a key figure for both club and country, raising expectations ahead of major international tournaments.
Next Stop: Coppa Italia Final
There’s no time to celebrate for long.
Oladipo and fellow Nigerian star, Rinsola Babajide will now shift focus to the Coppa Italia Femminile final against Juventus Women on May 24.
Victory would seal a historic domestic double for Roma and cap off a near-perfect season.
At 21, Shukurat Oladipo is promising and delivering at the highest level. And from views this season, the best is still yet to come.
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