Super Falcons defender Nicole Payne scored her first professional goal to secure a 1–0 win for Orlando Pride over San Diego Wave FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Payne, making her first start for Orlando Pride and only her third appearance since returning from a torn ACL that ruled her out for the entire 2025 season, struck the match winner in first-half stoppage time at Snapdragon Stadium. She reacted quickest to a loose ball on the edge of the box after Luana delivered a long, floated pass into the area that deflected into her path.
The former PSG Féminine player’s most recent involvement with the Nigeria Super Falcons came during the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Her goal also carried added significance, coming in the same state where she last scored during her college career at USC, located 120 miles north of San Diego.
Before the breakthrough, Orlando were held level by goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse, who produced five saves on the night, including a double stop in the 33rd minute.
Orlando Pride will next face Bay FC on 29 May in their final match before the league break.
