Women’s Football: Usani Miracle: Nigeria’s rising star

At just 18, Usani Miracle is already turning heads as one of Nigeria’s most promising defensive talents. In a country renowned for producing elite defenders such as Onome Ebi, Florence Omagbemi, Kikelomo Ajayi, Faith Michael (née Ikidi) and Osinachi Ohale; Miracle is emerging as the next standout name.

A poised, intelligent presence at the heart of Edo Queens’ back line, and a rising star whose impact may soon resonate on the global stage.

Miracle plays with the composure of someone well beyond her years. Calm under pressure and consistently mature in her decision-making, she is more than just a defender, she’s a thinker and a leader in the making. “She’s like a chess player in football boots,” said one Edo Queens staff member. “Always two moves ahead.”

In today’s game, defenders are expected to do more than just defend, and Miracle ticks every box. Technically sharp, two-footed, tactically aware, and composed in possession, she reads the game with intelligence and rarely dives into challenges. She knows exactly when to step up or hold the line.

She isn’t just a wall at the back, she’s a launchpad for attack. Her overlapping runs, incisive through balls, and presence in the final third add genuine value. You can call her a dual threat: equally adept at stopping attacks and launching them.

Miracle’s rise began with a standout performance at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in India, where she helped Nigeria secure a bronze medal. Since then, she has continued to grow, joining the LaLiga Academy and earning a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League Best XI in 2024, a major accolade for a teenager competing against Africa’s elite.

With WAFCON 2025 approaching, calls for Miracle’s inclusion in the Super Falcons are growing louder. Her maturity, versatility, and composure make her a natural fit for Nigeria’s senior side. At this rate, it’s not a matter of if, it’s when.

Beyond the African continent, Miracle’s talent is also drawing international attention. She was recently ranked 18th on the NXGN 2025 list, a prestigious ranking by GOAL that highlights the top 25 teenage wonderkids in women’s football globally.
That recognition is more than just a nod to her potential, it’s a clear signal that clubs and scouts across Europe are watching closely.

Despite the growing hype, Miracle remains grounded. In an interview with ACLSports, she credited her success so far to her faith.
“I was so excited when I saw the GOAL ranking,” she said. “I was like, ‘Could this be true?’”
Her mindset going into any match or tournament is simple:
“The greatest capital I have is my mind, because I need to have the ‘I can do it’ mindset.”

While her parents now support her football career, that wasn’t always the case. “They weren’t at first because I’m a girl,” she revealed.

Though she thrives as a defender, her favourite moments come when pushing forward. “I love to see the opposition’s net shake,” she said, describing her joy in making attacking runs and delivering crosses.

For now, her sights are set on helping Edo Queens challenge for titles while continuing to evolve as a player.

“She has the tools, the temperament, and the tactical intelligence,” said a youth coach who worked with her. “If she stays grounded, the sky isn’t even the limit.”

Usani Miracle is more than just a rising talent, she’s the future of Nigerian football.