Antionette Oyedupe Payne, also known as Toni Payne, is an American-born Nigerian professional footballer who plays for Sevilla FC in the Spanish Liga F and the Nigeria women’s national team, the Super Falcons.
Her rise to prominence has been nothing short of spectacular at both the club and national levels, demonstrating her abilities both on and off the field.
Toni Payne, who was born in Birmingham, Alabama, to Nigerian parents, is eligible to play for either the United States or Nigeria in international football.
Her love for the beautiful game was clear from an early age, and she was raised in a football-loving family.
Her younger siblings, Stephen Oyebolaji Payne and Nicole Payne, have also achieved success in football, with Stephen becoming an American soccer player and Nicole shining as a defender for Paris Saint-Germain.
Payne began her European football career in 2016, joining AFC Ajax, where she polished her skills and acquired crucial experience.
Sevilla FC was drawn to her talent and determination, and she signed with the Spanish club in June 2018. Initially hired on a one-year contract, her outstanding performance won her contract extensions for two years in 2019.
Payne’s international career began with the US under-17 team, and she was an important member of the group that won the 2012 CONCACAF Women’s U-17 Championship.
Her passion for her Nigerian roots, as well as a desire to represent her motherland, drove her to change her allegiance in 2019.
Payne made her senior debut for the Nigerian national team at the Turkish Women’s Cup on February 18, 2021, showcasing her immense talent and expertise.
Her seamless incorporation into the Super Falcons has been noteworthy, and she has established herself as an important member of Randy Waldrum’s side.
Payne’s effect on the pitch is clear as she effortlessly glides past defenders, creates scoring opportunities, and contributes to the team’s attacking prowess while wearing the number 7 shirt.
Her exceptional qualities were on full show during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, when she assisted Asisat Oshoala with her first goal, underlining her significance to the team’s win.
Payne’s contributions was undoubtedly critical to the Super Falcons’ success at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
